Trapped By The Past

As we approach the final days of Lent, we hear the powerful Gospel (John 8:1-11) of the woman caught in adultery. Jesus is in the Temple teaching when the scribes and Pharisees bring a woman to him who had been accused of adultery. According to the Law of Moses, such a crime was punishable by stoning. However, their real intention is to trap Jesus. If he approves of the punishment, then he seems ruthless. If he doesn't, he appears to disregard the law. But Jesus responds by turning the situation around. He bends down, and begins to write in the dust.

A Unforgetable Response

The Gospel does not say what he wrote, but what he says next is unforgettable: “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” One by one, the accusers leave. Finally, Jesus turns to the woman and says, “Neither do I condemn you. Go and from now on do not sin any more.”

It Is Our Story

This story is not just about the woman. How many of us have felt trapped by past mistakes, guilt, or shame? Jesus did not ignore her sin, but he did not define her by it either. He offered her a new path forward. Lent is a time to recognize where we are holding onto past failures. Are we weighed down by guilt? Do we struggle to forgive ourselves? Have we, like the crowd, been quick to judge others? Jesus’ words remind us that we are more than our worst moments. He calls us to let go of shame, to step out of the trap of the past, and to walk in the freedom of his grace.

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us accept his mercy and extend it to others, trusting in the new beginning he offers to us all.