“Go and sin no more.” Did Jesus really say that to the woman standing before him? Did he expect that she was able to live such a life? Remember, she was just brought to Jesus by a group of angry men who had already passed judgment. She was guilty’ they caught her in the act.
As we read this passage this morning, where do we find ourselves in the story? It goes without saying that all people are sinners and have fallen short of God’s glory. We know how to choose right from wrong, yet all too often we join the mob by pointing out the sins of others, lest we admit our own disobedience. We must acknowledge our sin for it is the only thing we truly own. As the woman is dragged before Jesus, the court of public opinion has already decided her fate. Little did they understand, they too were on trial before God.
With our sin exposed by God’s Law, our guilt is ever before us. Like the woman in our text, we have been caught in the act of disobedience. Thus, our sin is exposed to those who would hold us in judgment, those whom we have hurt by our actions. We also stand in judgment before Christ, yet he speaks a word of mercy. Jesus extends his forgiveness and grace even though we are undeserving. Understanding we are forgiven, a Christian’s response is also to forgive.
Who is left to condemn you? Truly there is only one who has such power and authority. His judgement; however, is clemency. His gift is forgiveness, setting the sinner free from the consequences of sin, for he has paid the price himself.
Prayer: O God, thank you for your mercy and grace; for your pardon and peace, and for the gift of salvation which comes through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
In the Beginning 