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Word To Life
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Sunday Scripture Readings, March 21, 2010
By Jean Denton
Catholic News Service
March 21, Fifth Sunday of Lent
Cycle C Readings:
1) Isaiah 43:16-21
Psalm 126:1-6
2) Philippians 3:8-14
Gospel: John 8:1-11
I was touched at a recent Lenten parish mission when the keynote speaker explained how Jesus offers mercy and reconciliation in the sacrament of Eucharist.
But suddenly, the noted priest scholar was interrupted by a participant who raised his hand and stood up. "I'm bothered by the continued lack of reverence for the sacrament in our church," he said. "People aren't going to confession, and they are still coming to Communion. There are people receiving Eucharist who, I know, have no business being at the Lord's table."
The priest paused, incredulous. Was this person not listening?
I looked around the room and saw quite a few raised eyebrows. Personally, I wanted to stone the guy. What a judgmental prig!
Then I caught myself as the priest patiently explained Jesus' constant welcome to sinners. He explained it without condemning the questioner.
Had I never stood in judgment of another's worthiness? Of course, I had. Maybe I just hadn't said it aloud. Well, maybe I had ... maybe more than once.
I kept my stones to myself.
In this weekend's Gospel, Jesus reminds us of our own unworthiness. Without stating it in words, he points out that our sinfulness itself proves our unworthiness to judge another.
Since that parish mission, the memory of the man publicly, unfairly standing in judgment of others has stayed in my mind. It serves as a continual reminder that Jesus is the only worthy judge -- and he has shown us that he is compassionate to sinners. He prefers to forgive and invite them to come to his table restored to goodness and life.
QUESTIONS:
When have you chosen to be the judge of another's actions or intentions? What issues tend to bring out your rush to judgment? Have you been without sin in such matters?
SCRIPTURE TO BE ILLUSTRATED:
"Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her" (John 8:7).
END
Copyright © 2009 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The CNS Word To Life column may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed, including but not limited to such means as framing or any other digital copying or distribution method, in whole or in part without the prior written authority of Catholic News Service.
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