Fifth Sunday of Lent (C)
“Neither do I condemn you”
Today, we see “Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger” (Jn 8:6), as if he had more important things to do than having to listen to those accusing “a woman who had been caught in adultery” (Jn 8:3).
We must pay attention to Jesus Christ's peace of mind and sense of humor, even in moments that for others may be of great stress. In our present days, passing as they do at breakneck speed, twisting and compressing our nerves on a great many occasion, this is a practical lesson for each one of us.
The silent and humorous departure of the accusers reminds us that God is the only one who can judge us, and that we are all sinners. In our daily life, in our work, in our family or social relations, we often make value judgments. Oftentimes, our judgment is wrong and harmful to the reputation of others. This is an offense that forces us to retraction. And this is not always so easy. Upon contemplating Jesus amidst that “filthy mess” of accusers, we may very well understand what saint Thomas Aquinas pointed out: "In every work of God both justice and mercy are united and they support each other. Justice without mercy is cruelty; and mercy without justice is ruin, destruction."
Let us fill ourselves with joy knowing with certainty that God forgives us of all our sins through repentance in the sacrament of confession. In these Lenten days, in the sacrament of reconciliation, we have the splendid opportunity to go to the One who is rich in mercy.
Finally, let us make a concrete resolution today: when I look upon others, I will say, deep in my heart, the same words Jesus said: “Neither do I condemn you” (Jn 8:11).