And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” John 8:7 ESV
Throughout life we each have roles to play. Parents often care for their children. In time, there’s a season when children care for their parents. We have roles within our family, our friend groups, our employer, and even roles within civic and volunteer organizations.
Usually these roles require us to nurture, support, love, encourage, execute, follow through or communicate. In the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery, a group of men gathered to confront, condemn, and cause the death of the woman. (John 8:1-5) The problem with their confrontation is that it was not their role.
They were in no position to judge, condemn, scrutinize, or punish the woman and Jesus reminded them of that with His famous words “let him who is without sin…cast the first stone.” (John 8:7)
Truth be told, sometimes we are that group of men. Whether it’s people we know or people we don’t know, we can find ourselves subtly or overtly in the position of judging others, condemning their behavior or inaction, seeking retribution, and even punishing others via the silent treatment or specific actions. That ain’t our job!
Instead we should embody and practice the advice laid out in 1 Peter 3 to “be agreeable, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble, avoiding retaliation, and sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, we should bless because that’s our job!” (8-12 MSG)
Reflection
When have I demonstrated mindsets and actions similar to the men who wanted to condemn the woman? How can I remind myself of my actual role and be loving and a blessing instead? What would it take for me to abandon my scrutiny of others?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for being the one true judge. Forgive me for trying to take your place and do your job. Help me to not cast the first stone. Show me how to be a blessing, loving, kind, and uplifting to all of those I encounter. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash
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