Drop Your Stones~

"Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God." Philippians 1:3

What a beautiful verse that perfectly describes how I feel:)

Yesterday we saw how our trailblazing Jesus offered a woman something she desperately needed: Forgiveness and eternal life. In today's Bible story we see what it like for a real Man to take a stand.

John 8 tells the story of a woman who was caught in the act of adultery. She was brought before all the religious leaders and they, being so knowledgeable about religion (good for them!) actually picked up a bunch of rocks and stones and prepared to throw them at this poor soul.

Talk about ganging up on someone. Talk about being holier than thou. Talk about thinking you're better than someone. And by the way, where was the man she had been with? The Bible says he was no where in sight. Maybe he was at the back of the crowd with a stone in his hand. GAG ME!

So tragic...until Jesus shows up.

And what did He do? Very calmly, in the middle of that bloodthirsty crowd, He said the most precious words that woman had ever heard, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her."

Excuse me while I do a happy dance:) I love that Jesus didn't flinch. And He wasn't afraid to do what was right even though He was outnumbered.

Imagine the sound of all those folks dropping those stones. There would be no killing today--not on Jesus' watch.

And look at what He says to her at the end of the passage, "I do not condemn you, now go and leave your life of sin."

This is yet another perfect example of how to treat others. Come alongside and offer encouragement and even protection if necessary. Show concern for someone's soul--not nosiness about their sins. Keep your judgments to yourself. Keep your criticism to yourself. Keep your gossip to yourself. Empty your pockets of stones. But by all means, share Jesus.

PRAYER:

Dear Lord, Thank You that You show such tender love and concern for our souls. Jesus wanted that woman to leave her life of sin so she could be blessed. You want the same for us. Forgive us and open our eyes to our need for You that we might daily invite You to come alongside us. In Jesus' name, AMEN~