Throwing Stones

Friday, February 18, 2011

Reading: John 8:1-11

Reflection: It seems like the major point of this story is the hypocritical judgment of others. First of all, one has to ask why both the man and the woman are not brought before Jesus. After all, if she was caught in the act, then so was he. Yet, only the woman is brought to Jesus for judgment. Perhaps this is because the goal of these people is not really justice as it is trapping Jesus. In any event, these people are sinning in the very way in which they are handling a sinner. As a result, all are guilty.

Second, Jesus calls these people to realize that it is better to show mercy than to cast judgment. In addition, Jesus shows that He has a different understanding of discipline than does the crowd. Jesus is not opposed to naming sin and bringing discipline. In fact, within this very strory Jesus recognizes that the woman is guilty of sin and calls her to stop. But Jesus also reminds all of us that the goal of discipline is to restore, not destroy, the sinner. It is better to correct and save than to judge and destroy.

When I am harmed by someone...or see a brother or sister in Christ sinning...what should my response be. First, my response should be rooted in the humble recognition that I, like they, am a sinner. Second, I need to rush to show mercy over judgment. Third, I need to have the courage to confront the sin while at the same time having the patience and persistance to work with the person until they are restored. This is the goal of compassionate Christian correction...not throwing stones.