John 8:11 – “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

Jesus came to earth as a radical personality. A King born in a manger! Throughout his earthly life he kept surprising everyone. He turned water into wine! He over-ruled tradition and keepers of the law. They dragged a woman to him and said: “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” (See John 8: 4 – 5). As if ignoring them he bent down and wrote on the ground with his finger while their questioning continued. Finally he responded: “If anyone of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.”  He started writing again and the accusers disappeared one by one. Then Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you.” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” (See John 8: 7 – 11).

As the dinner guest at a Pharisee’s house one day, Jesus encountered a woman who, by inference, was considered a prostitute. Nevertheless, she came to Jesus in great humility, exposing herself to ridicule and shame by those who knew about her life. Her desire for forgiveness and a change in her life was greater than the humiliation. After letting her tears flow freely on his feet and drying them with her hair, she anointed them with an expensive ointment.  Jesus used this as a teachable moment for his host and guests. He explained that because her sins which were many had been forgiven, hence her exuberant display of gratitude. Then Jesus addressed her directly: “Your sins are forgiven” …. “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Read the full account in Luke 7: 36 – 50).

No matter how tattered and ragged life has made you, do not be in despair. Jesus the Son of God looks at you with nothing but love for you in his eyes. His arms are outstretched to lift you up, to forgive and speak peace to your soul. Claim this kind of healing for yourself today or share it with someone.

“My love for the broken, the oppressed, the down trodden is unlimited. It is for them I died.  My love is to be extended to them through all those who love me in a special way.  A bruised reed will I not break, and a smoking flax I will not quench. Where there is pain and hurt with repentance, I am there to heal, forgive and make whole. Therefore live my love to those in need.”