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April 6, 2014
Scripture readings: Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62; Psalm 23; John 8:1-11
Our lives include many people who sin against us and hurt us.
Today’s Gospel is not so much about sin but about God’s mercy. Was Jesus to leave aside the compassion, the mercy, and the love He preached and condemn the woman caught in adultery?
No. He did not condemn her. He did not even interrogate her. But He did tell her to sin no more.
Is it possible to look at someone who has hurt us, who has sinned against us, and not feel anger? What does it mean to forgive, to have mercy? On one hand, it is ending resentment, indignation, and anger, but more importantly, it is to love as God loves.
Jesus’ mercy helps us judge others in the light of forgiveness, tolerance, and compassion. The key is to invite the Lord into the process. He is the only one with the power to help us forgive without limit.
Julia J. Fernández
Brooklyn, N.Y.