In the parable of the Prodigal Son, we learned about God’s infinite compassion and mercy for us sinners. The story of the woman caught in adultery is another lesson in God’s compassion and mercy. The subjects in the two stories are different, and the difference shines a light on the depth of God’s love and mercy. You see, the Prodigal Son bewailed his predicament, admitted his transgressions, and returned to his father to beg for mercy in an apparent act of contrition. On the other hand, the adulteress woman didn’t have a chance to do the same! She was brought to Jesus by the scribes and the Pharisees, who condemned her and were eager to stone her. Jesus responded to them saying, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” —John 8:7. With Jesus turning the tables on them, they retreated, one by one.
The story of the woman caught in adultery teaches us important lessons about God’s mercy. The scribes and Pharisees, citing the Mosaic Law that mandates stoning for adultery, bring the woman to Jesus in an attempt to trap Him. Jesus’ response highlights that God’s mercy surpasses strict legalism. Jesus shifts the focus from rigid adherence to the law to personal accountability and the recognition of one’s own imperfections.
“Jesus said, ‘Neither do I condemn you. Go, [and] from now on do not sin any more.’” – John 8:11. Jesus does not condone the woman’s sins, nor does He condemn her. He acknowledges the sin while offering a path to redemption, urging her to change her life. This reveals God’s desire for sinners to turn away from their sins and not to be eternally condemned. Jesus extends an opportunity for rebirth to the woman, emphasizing the transformative power of His love and mercy, which know no limits. God yearns for His people to embrace change, encouraging them to let go of past burdens and embark on a journey of renewal. This call to transformation encompasses a deep, internal shift toward hope and purpose. In this way, Jesus invites each of us to live our lives anew, filled with the promise of redemption and seeking a richer life in Him.
In his November 2016 Apostolic Letter after the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, the Holy Father wrote, “A woman and Jesus meet. She is an adulteress and, in the eyes of the Law, liable to be stoned. Jesus, through his preaching and the total gift of himself that would lead him to the Cross, returned the Mosaic Law to its true and original intent. Here what is central is not the law or legal justice, but the love of God, which is capable of looking into the heart of each person and seeing the deepest desire hidden there; God’s love must take primacy over all else.” —Pope Francis.
As we near the end of Lent, we are called to renew our commitment to follow Christ more closely. Let us respond generously to the powerful promptings of this holy season so that we may share in Jesus’ victory over sin and death.
Go in Peace to Love and Serve the Lord.
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