Daily Readings - Mon Mar 30 2020
John
1Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.2And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.3And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,4They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.5Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?6This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.7So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.8And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.9And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.10When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?11She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and 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.