By William Selvaraj csc –
Readings: Dan 13: 1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62; Jn 8: 1-11
The first reading portrays the wrong verdict of condemning Susanna to death. Through prophet Daniel, who is a righteous and holy person, God saves innocent Susanna from the condemnation. It reminds us of our attitude towards our way of life. When we get what we desire in life, we are satisfied. Otherwise, we find some way or the other to bring bad name to the person who stands in our way. Through the gospel of the day, we are invited to not judge others rather ourselves, consciously. In our daily life, we usually tend to blame others, place, time, things, situations, and circumstances but we do not acknowledge our own mistakes. Jesus invites us to look at ourselves before pointing a finger at others. When we point a finger at others, without our knowledge others too point their fingers at us.
The pharisees and scribes wanted to brand Jesus as an enemy of Jewish laws and traditions and get him condemned to death. They set a trap to accuse Jesus of breaking the laws. By knowing their hearts, Jesus calls them to a conversion of heart. If a sinful woman, like the one in the gospel today, can find the mercy of God, anyone can get it, provided he or she is ready for change. When we are aware of our sinfulness, we understand others. Before using hurting words or making harsh judgments on others, let us be aware of our own limitations and be gentle and compassionate towards the shortcomings of others.
In both the readings, we see two women in both extremes in their character and nature. One is innocent but wrongly accused and the other is a sinful woman accused by the sinners themselves. But God accepts both women as they are and forgives their sins. In the same way, God accepts each of us as we are despite our vulnerabilities and sinful past. He shows his unconditional love for us. Let us ask for the grace of understanding and right conduct to live a happy and holy life.