The Truth Will Set You Free

Monday of the 5th week of Lent 

Daniel 13:1-9,15-17,19-30,33-62
John 8:1-11

The readings of today reminds us that God Himself defends those who are innocent, particularly when they cannot defend themselves. In the first reading, we see that two judges have become infatuated with Susanna and have lied apparently to protect themselves, condemning her to death for something she did not do. She is only saved by asking God for help. God heard her cry and sent the boy Daniel to save her.

Similarly, in today’s gospel, we see another woman about to be stoned for committing adultery. Jesus say to the people who have accused the woman caught in adultery that anymore amongst them with no sin should throw the first stone? What do the accusers and the crowds do? They all walk away. And what did Jesus say to the woman? (that he does not condemn her; that she should go and not sin anymore). Yes! She is saved by Jesus who forgives her sins and tells her to sin no more.

In both cases, those who had themselves sinned were quick to condemn others while covering up their own wrong doings. Sometimes when we look at other people, and sometimes even when we look at ourselves, we notice faults and wrongdoing and make these the focus of our attention.

It is almost as if we examine faults and sins with a magnifying glass rather then focus on the grace that God bestows upon us. We might even be tempted to think that God looks at us in this way too. God doesn’t focus on our sins but God forgives our sins, fully and completely, so that we can become the people he wants us to be.

When we go to confession, we seek to confess our sins honestly. We trust that God will forgive us because God sees us as we are and sees the people we can become as we grow in his love. Are you quick to judge ? What is your reaction when you come in contact with a person who “tagged” to be a sinner? Are you willing to love the sinner while condemning the sin?

Humility is accepting the truth that we all sinners and are dependent on God’s grace and not be the one to ‘cast the first stone.’ May God give us the grace to realize our own sinfulness and continue to turn to Him; to seek His forgiveness and resolve to sin no more. Amen.

PRAYER

May God bless you further as you set out today and your blessings shall be many. May he reward all the good we do, forgive our failings, and make us ever grateful. Amen.

Fr Joseph Osho