Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.
Today's Gospel: John 8:1-11
Have you ever had a day when you felt depleted of all patience for your child? You’ve had a quick-tempered or sharp tongued-day, haven’t you? I have. Some of these instances occurred as a response to a child doing something particularly naughty. But most of these days have more to do with me than my child. Maybe I didn’t sleep well, or I was stressed at work, or frustrated at something else and turned the frustration on my child. On these days, I have absolutely felt tempted to be a stronger-than-usual disciplinarian. Jesus shows us a better way.
There may have been, as the Pharisees propose, justification for a strong punishment, though John lets us know that the Pharisees’ goal was to test Jesus.
Notice how Jesus avoids dissecting the accusation or circumstances. Instead, he directs an examination of conscience,
“Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”
None of us is perfect. Neither we nor our children. If we enter corrective situations with empathy, knowing that we all fail and fall short, we can correct with mercy and love. Jesus’ mercy to the woman is corrective:
“Go, and from now on do not sin any more.”
Ponder:
Do I correct my child in a way that is empathetic, just, and merciful?
Pray:
Lord, thank You for the gift of children. Especially in our short-tempered moments, help us to see others, especially our children, as you see them - as beloved children created in Your image and likeness.
Copyright 2025 Elizabeth Tomlin
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