Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin”. (John 8:10-11)

John 8:1-11

The themes of mercy, forgiveness and repentance are glaring in this text. 

Unlike the Pharisees, Jesus doesn’t condemn this woman. He treats her with compassion and dignity. He demonstrates the power of grace and mercy by forgiving her despite her sin and shame. Jesus also calls her to turn away from this way of life. Instead, she should repent and turn towards God in reconciliation so she can live in the light of God and walk in God’s truth. She is offered forgiveness and deliverance and given a new start.

Jesus offers this to each one of us, too. Amid our challenges and wrongdoings, we can be saved from self-destruction, self-centredness, and sin. Jesus forgives our sins and invites us to a new life in and with him.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”. (Matt 11:28) Bring your burdens to God, asking for the grace of mercy and compassion. Start a new life in Jesus.

Reflections by Gillian Hugo

Our Father,
Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.
Amen.

Visit our website