John 8:1-11
Jesus says, “Go your way, and from now on do not sin again”
There is a moving story in the Bible of a woman, “caught in the very act of committing adultery” being brought to Jesus by some “upright” men of the community—Pharisees and others. They are calling her out as a sinner, an adulterous, before Jesus and the “people” who are gathered to hear Jesus. Noteworthy is the fact that they do not bring the man, the accomplice, as well.
How awful that moment must have been for the woman. It would also have been an embarrassing time for many in the audience who see this neighbor of theirs being shamed. Not only that, but the “righteous men” are suggesting she be stoned publicly for this “crime.” Worse yet, they are doing it to test Jesus and see if they can make him slip up and then they can condemn him for breaking Jewish law. We might say, they could “kill two birds with one stone” as the saying goes.
Jesus, looks at these conniving men, asks them if they themselves are without sin. If so, do as Moses says. One by one they leave the scene. Now the woman alone stands before Jesus (and the silent, watching crowd). Jesus says to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” The woman looks around, sees none of these men who have so humiliated her, and replies, “No one, sir!” Then Jesus says, “Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again.” You can read about this in John 8:1-11.
What I find interesting is the invitation that Jesus gives to the woman and to us. You may have done things you should not have done, you may be a broken vessel, but I do not hold that against you. Take a new path in life, find a fresh purpose for your life. You may be a broken crayon, but you can still color. There is hope for you. There are lives you may touch, color, brighten that will bring honor to your family, friends, neighbors, and in so doing, give glory to God who created you, who forgives you, who loves you—no matter what!
The phrase, “Broken Crayons Still Color” comes from a true story book by David Weaver. I have not read it. However, I understand that it is a story of a man’s journey into and out of the drug scene. As the promo for the book says, “This is a story of addiction and redemption, of overcoming some of life’s most overwhelming obstacles with the help of God and his most qualified angels.”
We all are broken crayons of various shades and sizes. But, we also have so much potential to change, to bring goodness into our world wherever we are, and to help others through the rough times of their lives. What a privilege that is!
Prayer: Gracious, forgiving, renewing God, help us to color your world with hope and peace. Amen
Song: “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” by George N. Allen