Throw a Stone

"Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her." (John 8:7)

Obedience of the mind to the context of the law without a heart of mercy and compassion leads to wrongful judgment and condemnation.

It is first fitting to examine ourselves before we see the wrongdoings of other people.

It was during this same season of lent some years back when I, together with other past leaders of our church were persecuted in a council meeting. We were mocked and ridiculed by an unruly crowd brought in by some church leaders who have resigned out of protest. All through out the proceedings, I just listened and remained silent knowing that whatever I say will only fall under deaf ears.

Before the start of the meeting, our Parish Priest who knows the intent of these people, proclaimed this gospel but somehow, their hearts were already hardened. Their words and acts have caused a great deal of pain and suffering to those that they have condemned.

In spite of these ordeal, I chose to be at peace with my Lord and continued to walk with Him wherever He leads. He has not condemned me but instead poured out His mercy upon me because His steadfast love endures forever!

That year, two elders of the people were appointed judges, of whom the Lord said, "Wickedness has come out from the elders who were to govern the people as judges" (Daniel 13:5). They suppressed their consciences; they would not allow their eyes to look to heaven, and did not keep in mind just judgments (Daniel 13:9). At the accusations, the servants felt very much ashamed, for never had any such thing been said (Daniel 13:27).

And Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you; go, and do not sin again." (John 8:11)

Lord Jesus, by your mercy and forgiveness you have set me free!

Free to boldly proclaim your goodness to a sinner like me. There is nobody to blame for what has happened in our church, the place where I have considered as my home. All of us are guilty and all of us have contributed to the division, each intending to justify oneself. No one is just except you my Lord!

I just ask that you grant me the grace to be once more reunited with my friends. Hurts only produce anger and miseries but love produces peace, radiance and beauty. I want to stay in peace and harmony to all which I can only obtain if I will love them.

Your love knows no bounds, let it flow out of my heart to all the people that surrounds me.

The whole assembly cried aloud, 

blessing God who saves 

those that hope in Him.

Daniel 13:60