11 Apr
Mon
5th Week of Lent
Dan. 13:1-9,15-17,19-30,33-62
Ps. 22(23):1-4,5,6
Jn. 8:1-11
(Ps Wk I)
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Jesus not only forgives but frees the sinner. Where do we stand? How would we have judged this woman brought before him in shame and disgrace and "deserving" capital punishment? Like the scribes and Pharisees, are we too intent on using religion to validate our decisions to carry out our judgements so that justice prevails? Jesus had come to fulfill the Law not to abolish it! Would Jesus "fulfill" the Law as the scribes and Pharisees wanted and give the nod to stone the woman?

Jesus chooses rather to make those who demand for justice and condemnation to take responsibility for their actions: that is, for setting him up and trying to kill someone! He turns the Law on them: "Let anyone among you who has no sin be the first to throw a stone at her!" It was no longer the woman who was on trial!

When we come face to face with the unconditional love of God, we cannot but begin to feel not only unworthy but awkward as well. Our self-importance seems ridiculous then. God's forgiveness is complete and unconditional: 'neither will I condemn you ... go and do not sin anymore.' The freedom that came with God's forgiveness would have left the woman in tears of gratitude and joy. Her conversion cum redemption was instant.



Lord, re-mould us to become more compassionate and merciful as You are.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That through its compelling preaching of the Gospel, the Church may give young people new reasons for life and hope.
Elaboration

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