Year C, Fifth Sunday of Lent – Is 43:16-21; Ps 125:1-6; Phil 3:8-14; John 8:1-11
“Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her.” When these powerful words were spoken, one by one, starting with the elders, the accusers quietly dispersed into the crowd. Standing before her, Jesus spoke with deep compassion, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.”
Friends, let us now embrace the invigorating message of renewal found in Scripture. The prophet Isaiah joyfully declares, “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” And in the spirit of untiring perseverance, Saint Paul writes, “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on towards the goal.”
Isn’t it inspiring to hear these words? They remind us, dear friends, to avoid judging others – and ourselves – because only God, the righteous judge, truly understands our hearts. He does not condemn us, for His compassion knows no bounds.
So, let us step forward with courage and leave the past behind. Go on, and sin no more! You don’t have to strive alone to become righteous; instead, simply clothe yourself in God’s righteousness by placing your faith in Him.
True, the journey may seem tougher than it appears. Yet, God lovingly opens new paths even when the terrain seems impassable. We are called to venture into the unknown, to trust in His guiding hand. It is so tempting, at times, to glance back and think, “I am unworthy!” But remember: the finish line, not where we began, is what truly matters.
Jesus once warned that anyone who puts their hand to the plough and then looks back is unfit for the kingdom of God. So let us examine our own hearts. Ask yourself: Am I more eager to forgive, or do I harbour a readiness to cast stones? Am I steadily moving forward, or am I caught up in regrets from the past?
As we follow in the footsteps of the saints, let us embrace the wisdom of Saint Vincent de Paul, who said, “True love opens its arms and closes its eyes.” With open arms, let us welcome the transformative love of God while closing our eyes to judgment and condemnation.
Friends, step forward with joy and confidence. Embrace this new path that our loving God has set before you. There is hope, renewal, and an abundance of grace waiting for you on this journey. May we all keep pressing on, united in faith and determination, as we walk together towards our eternal goal. Amen.
