Neither Do I Condemn You

This meditation is based on a passage for December 29, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: John 7:53-8:11

Reflection and Question: This story of the woman taken in adultery embodies Jesus’ warning, “Judge not, that you be not judged (Matthew 7:1),” and Paul’s teaching, “We have all sinned (Romans 3:23).” What is striking about this story is that because no person is without sin, judgment must rest with Jesus and God. And Jesus, in His compassion, also has no desire to condemn this woman. For me, the lesson here is that we are not to judge – not only because it is not our place to do so but also because Jesus, Himself, chooses not to. What lesson do you draw from this story?

Prayer: Merciful Jesus, we would melt away like the scribes because we, too, are in need of Your mercy. Every time You say to us, “Do not sin again,” we leave with that intent and yet we do. Do not condemn us. May we not condemn anyone else. Amen.