3 April 2017

Monday of the Fifth Week of Lent

What is one of the first results of God’s Spirit being poured out into our hearts? In the case of young Daniel it was a concern for justice and for the life of innocent Susanna. ( Dn 13:44 ff.) “God stirred up the holy spirit of a young boy named Daniel, and he cried aloud: ‘I will have no part in the death of this woman.'”

Such is the action of the Spirit of Christ in today’s Gospel. In the face of those who have no concern for justice or for the life of the woman caught in adultery, Jesus places before them the criterion of judgment, “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.” ( Jn 8:7) He helps the Pharisees to see that mercy is the most just action that can be given by sinful judges such as themselves. He also helps the woman to see that her life will be truly life only if she avoids sin. “Has no one condemned you? Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.” ( Jn 8:11)

As we ask for the Spirit of Christ to come and dwell in us, let us beg for Christ’s concern for just mercy and for our neighbor’s spiritual welfare.