GOSPEL

Let the one among you who is faultless be the first to cast a stone.
Reading from the Gospel according to John 8:1-11

During that time, Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. In the early morning, he returned to the temple, and a crowd gathered around him. He sat down and began to teach them.
The scribes and Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, stood her before the crowd, and said, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” They said this to test him, seeking grounds to accuse him. Jesus bent down and wrote on the ground with his finger. As they continued to question him, he stood up and said, “Let any of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Then he bent down and wrote on the ground again. Upon hearing this, they left one by one, starting with the elders, until only Jesus and the woman remained. Jesus stood up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She replied, “No one, Lord.” Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin again.”

The Word of the Lord

Endless Excuses.

According to Saint John Paul II, our hearts can react to sin in two ways: accusation or calling. Accusation, fueled by darkness, despair, contempt, and condemnation, is characteristic of the devil. However, the Lord comes not to condemn but to forgive, heal, restore dignity, and entrust us with His grace once more. Today, we must choose between adopting the devil’s accusatory stance or embracing God’s forgiving approach to sin.

Applied to Marriage:

Mary: (Inwardly prays: “Lord, my husband has treated me harshly, but I won’t hold it against him. I won’t condemn him but instead offer myself in sacrifice for his redemption.”) Darling, you seem tense now, but this will pass, and you’ll find your way back to the Lord’s heart. Your love for the Lord is evident; you don’t wish to cause Him pain. You seek union with Him and with me. I believe you’ll continue striving, and the Lord will sanctify you. I trust you, Carlos. You’re an amazing husband.
Charles: Thank you, Merche. Your encouragement helps me regain my dignity as a child of God and restores my hope. Thank you for your boundless love. May God bless you abundantly.

Mother,

We are blessed to have such a merciful Father. We aspire to act as His beloved children. Forever praised be His name.