Love God Greatly: Shame Breakerናሙና

Jesus interacted with the woman caught in adultery in a very unusual way. The authorities were ready to stone her. Instead of condemning her, Jesus told the crowd, “Whoever among you is guiltless may be the first to throw a stone at her” (Jn 8:7). 

All sins nail Jesus to the cross. No matter how big or small we judge the sin, no matter how culturally acceptable or convenient, it all requires Jesus’s sacrifice for our redemption. Sin shows our need for redemption. When we are exposed for our sin we want to hide, yet when others are exposed, we want to see them punished. Jesus meets us the same way He met the woman caught in adultery—with compassion and instruction. He did not condemn her, but He also did not let her remain in her sin. 

When we are exposed, may we remember the way Jesus responds to us. When others are exposed, may we also grant them the compassion and truth Jesus offers: “Go, and from now on do not sin any more” (Jn 8:11).

Lord, You are full of compassion and mercy. Help me remember Your grace when I am overwhelmed by shame. Help me to repent. Keep me from condemning others, but instead, help me be willing to offer grace and truth. Amen.