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Judgement or Truth?

December 11, 2024

Isaiah 6:1-13| 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12| John 7:53-8:11

Perhaps because of the current situation in our country right now, I find myself recoiling from the words of judgement that permeate the readings today. During Isaiah’s time, Israel had become two kingdoms suffering from political and moral decay. God gives Isaiah the task to speak with the people of Judah about their waywardness and the consequences of their behavior. Ironically, God also says they will not hear Isaiah’s warning nor repent, bringing God’s judgement and destruction upon themselves and their country. Ouch!

Even Paul’s words of thanksgiving and encouragement for the young, persecuted church community at Thessalonica turn into a description of the righteous judgement which is to come when Jesus returns bringing eternal punishment to those who fall short and are not worthy. Ouch again!

The reading from John’s Gospel begins with the Pharisees and scribes once again setting a trap to condemn Jesus by dragging in front of him a woman caught in the act of adultery. According to the law of Moses, she (not her partner, please note) is to be stoned to death for that offense. But Jesus responds in a way they do not expect. He says, ‘Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.’ Then he bends over and writes upon the ground not watching for their response. Shortly Jesus is alone with the unharmed woman before him. He asks her, ‘Where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ She answers, “No one, sir.’ Jesus responds, ‘Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again.’

During the next few months, we may find ourselves with words of judgement on our tongues. There may even be times during the holidays when we find ourselves at odds with family or friends who do not see things as we do. I am grateful for Jesus’ example of speaking truth rather than condemnation. With God’s help, I will be able to take a breath and respond with words not of judgement, but words of truth, spoken through the filter of love for the person who is at odds with me. In this way, I can hope that the relationship will remain so that the conversation can continue.

Betsy Fornal