Daily Readings - Mon Mar 30 2020
John
1but Jesus went to the Mount of Olives.2Early in the morning he came again to the temple. All the people came to him, and he sat down and taught them.3The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst4they said to him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery.5Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?"6This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground.7And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her."8And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground.9But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him.10Jesus stood up and said to her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"11She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more."]]
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that explore themes of integrity, justice, and divine intervention. The story of Susanna from the Book of Daniel presents a woman of deep faith and virtue who faces false accusations from corrupt elders. Despite the dire circumstances, Susanna's trust in God never wavers, and through the wisdom of Daniel, truth prevails, and justice is served. This narrative underscores the importance of standing firm in one's convictions and trusting in God's providence, even in the face of adversity.
The Gospel reading from John complements this theme as Jesus encounters a woman caught in adultery. The Pharisees, seeking to test Jesus, present her for judgment according to the law of Moses. Jesus, in His wisdom and compassion, challenges the hypocrisy of her accusers, inviting the sinless to cast the first stone. His response, "Neither will I condemn you. Go, and now do not choose to sin anymore," embodies the essence of mercy and the call to repentance. This encounter highlights the balance between justice and compassion, reminding us that we are all in need of God's grace.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own lives. Like Susanna, we may face false judgments or trials, but we are called to maintain our integrity and trust in God's plan. Like the woman in the Gospel, we are reminded that while we may stumble, God's mercy is always available to us. Let us strive to live with the integrity of Susanna and the humility of the woman who encountered Christ. May we seek truth, avoid hypocrisy, and extend compassion to others, remembering that we are all in need of God's forgiveness and grace.