John 8:1-11. Are
we called to condemn or to forgive? The Scribes and the Pharisees were inclined
to condemn not only the woman but also Jesus. They brought to the Lord a woman
who had been caught in the act of adultery to test him regarding the issue of
retribution so that they could find something to accuse him. If Jesus said the
woman must be pardoned, he would be held in contempt of the Law of Moses. If he
said the woman must be stoned to death, he would be contradicting himself as a
teacher of mercy. Jesus’ response showed the greatness of his mind and heart.
“Let him who has no sin be the first one to throw a stone at her.” No one dared
to cast a single stone because all have realized their sinfulness. “Neither do
I condemn you”, the Lord said, “Go, and sin no more.”
