John 8:1-11 - No condemnation

Scripture: John 8:1-11

Summary: A woman is brought to Jesus who has committed adultery. Jesus tells the men that anyone among them who is without sin should throw the first stone. The men go away 1 by 1 and Jesus tells the woman that he doesn't condemn her and she should go and not sin again.

Thoughts: Every time I read this story I wonder where the man is that this woman was committing adultery with! But that is a bunny trail which I will not venture down today. This story reminds me of grace. In the Jewish law if you committed adultery, the punishment was to be stoned. I think Jesus wanted to let this woman go and have another chance but he had to find a way to do so that the men would agree with. They were constantly testing him and this was just another test. So Jesus tells them that anyone among them who is without sin should be the first to throw a stone. Then he waited. I can see the men, having to admit to themselves that they had surely sinned before, and then one by one slinking away. Then Jesus looks at the woman asking "Has no one condemned you?" When she says no, Jesus provides grace and tells her that he doesn't condemn her either. Second chances are what the Bible stories are all about. Even the famous Bible heroes and heroines make mistakes, but God gives them another chance. Even though she has sinned, Jesus gives this woman another chance. Go and sin no more!

Prayer: Oh God, you are the God of grace. For without your grace, which of us would stand a chance? Which of us could throw the first stone? Certainly not me. Amen.

Romans 8:1-11 - No condemnation

Scripture: Romans 8:1-11

Summary: This scripture says that God does not condemn us and reminds us that we should set our minds on the things of the Spirit, not things of the flesh.

Thoughts: Paul says "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Do we need to hear any more than this? No matter what we have done in the past, God does not condemn us. This is a powerful message to those of us who constantly hear condemnation of ourselves, either in our own head or from the mouths of others. Let's offer those condemning thoughts of all of our shortcomings and wrongdoings to Jesus Christ, who provides us pardon for all of it. What more needs to be said? Nothing.

Prayer: Forgiving God, I offer you all of the condemnation that has taken root in my soul. I know that you will take it and make it no more. If I can give it up, you will make it disappear. Thanks be to God! Amen.