From childhood we can all recall the cruelty inflicted by bullies, name-callers, abusers who found pleasure in humiliating and wounding others, often those who were most vulnerable. Though we have often heard the familiar saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” we know it isn’t true. Words cut deeply and leave wounds and scars that may last a lifetime. We see the damage and pain that abusers inflict on individuals and on society. God help us that we, as Christians, are not among those who accuse and abuse! Christians strive to live according to God’s word, but it’s easy for legalism to creep in. Yes, Christianity comes with Commandments and rules by which we should live, but remember Jesus said the greatest Commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and soul and then to love your neighbor as yourself. Loving people means seeing beyond their faults and failures, seeing their needs and offering them the same grace that Jesus gave us when we received Him as our Savior. Our mission and ministry is to draw people to Christ so they can experience the freedom of God’s grace, not send them running from the church because there are so many rules that they feel burdened by guilt.

Scriptures – John 8:4-5, 7-8, 10-11; Mt 11:28

Verses – “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The Law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” (Jn 8:4-5) They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.(Jn 8:7-8) Jesus stood up and asked her, “Where is everyone? Isn’t there anyone left to accuse you?” “No sir,” the woman answered. Then Jesus told her, “I am not going to accuse you either. You may go now, but don’t sin anymore.” (Jn 8:10-11) Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Mt 11:28)

Thought – In the story above we observe religious leaders who are stone throwers. They have become so focused on obeying the rules, that they can’t see the damage they are causing. They hope to back Jesus into a corner by citing the Law, and making Him the judge. Going against the Law would make Jesus look bad, but adhering to the letter of the Law would undermine why he came—to offer grace and forgiveness. Jesus tells the stone throwers to proceed, but only the person with no sin can throw the first stone. The wisdom of Jesus’ words is mind blowing. He turned their judgement back on them…and pointed to their own failure in obeying the Law. The fact is no one could obey all the rules. That’s why Jesus came. He offered the once-and-for-all sacrifice for us, the rule-breakers. When we give our lives to Jesus, we don’t become perfect, but we are covered by His righteousness. We strive to please Him because we love Him, not because we are burdened by rules and legalism. We are called to offer God’s grace to those around us. 

Questions – Is it easier to show grace to friends and family than to others?  What broken rules trigger judgement in you? How do you get your mindset into grace, when you are struggling with a situation? Who is in need of God’s grace through you right now?

Response – Think before you speak. Don’t allow your words to be stones that wound and scar. Let them be full of grace.

Prayer – Dear Father, thank you that the grace you gave through Jesus is sufficient for my sins—past, present and future. Thank you for your continuing forgiveness and compassion. Help me to give your grace to others so that they will see the joy and freedom in living for you. In Jesus Name I pray, amen.