Caught And Dismissed

Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”

John 8:10-11

Have you ever been caught “accidentally” speeding? Maybe you missed the sign and were unaware that the speed limit had changed. Maybe no other cars were around and you were preoccupied. Maybe your foot was a little heavier because you were closer to home, and your speed picked up just like a horse’s does when he can see his home barn ahead. (Is that why they call it horsepower in cars?)

Even when my car is on cruise control, my heart drops when I hear a police car’s siren or catch a glimpse of flashing lights in my rearview mirror. As I quickly double-check my speedometer, I think, Lord, please don’t let it be me! None of us wants to be caught, but if we are, we hold our breath until the officer either writes us a ticket or just gives us a warning. It’s always a sweet relief when neither happens and he whizzes by me, with another agenda in mind. (I hope it’s not sweet you!)

In John 8, a woman caught in adultery was brought before Jesus to be killed by stoning. Jesus’ response? “Let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” (verse 7). Talk about a reality check! The accusers silently slinked away. When Jesus asked the woman—the only person left—if anyone accused her, she could honestly say no. “Neither do I,” replied Jesus. “Go and sin no more” (verse 11).

No matter the sin, God’s grace, mercy, and kindness is extended to us equally. We still need Him to forgive and dismiss our sin instead of condemning us. Just as He told the woman in John 8, we must “go and sin no more.”

Being eternally released from the penalty of our sin is worth celebrating. Although we may still face consequences in this life for the wrong things we do, we can trust that God forgives us when we repent. He is ready to help us change our course and make decisions that please Him.