At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”
“No one, sir,” she said.
“Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”
(John 8:9-11 NIV)
I remember these verses, do you? If my memory is correct, this is when Mary Magdalene and Christ met at the site of her stoning for being found guilty of being an adulterer. Jesus had been teaching in the temple courts, and the Pharisees brought in Mary, having been caught in adultery. The Pharisees asked Him a question, hoping to trap Him and accuse Him of breaking the law. Jesus knew their devious motives, so He challenged them to examine their own hearts. If they had never sinned, they could throw the first stone. Everyone except Jesus walked away. He was the only sinless one among them. He “could have” thrown the first stone but chose to forgive instead. Isn’t that awesome? Jesus told the woman to go and leave her life of sin (see John 8:1-11).
When we sin, there are consequences. Galatians 6:7 warns, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Yet, we have a God who is merciful and forgiving. His love for us overcomes all. He gives us a second chance. He is always there to pick us up, brush us off, and send us back into the world. He will not condemn but forgive. God’s well of grace is deeper than we could ever imagine! Let’s drink from it today! Blessings, everyone!