This week, beginning with the Fifth Sunday of Lent, used to be called Passion Week to distinguish itself from Holy Week. The readings from John’s Gospel show how Jesus infuriated the religious leaders of his day by illustrating how his ministry was to bring mercy and forgiveness to the world in order that it might be saved. In contrast, some of the religious leaders focused on rules and regulations in order to keep the people in line.
Jesus led many people closer to God because he wanted to show them how much God loves them. In 2025 do we bring people closer to God by illustrating his love? Or are we prone to using scripture as a rule book to enforce a code of behavior?
This past Sunday, the woman caught in adultery was not given a free pass. She was not told, “Go ahead, do what you want.” Rather, instead of condemning or shaming her, Jesus instructs her to “go and sin no more.” When people have wronged us or when we see someone not behaving appropriately, do we shame them or want to hurt them? Instead, should we not be more like Jesus and invite them to “go and sin no more?”
Unfortunately, in today’s culture there is an undercurrent of negativity and the desire to condemn or punish those with whom we disagree. As we prepare to enter into Holy Week, I encourage you to reflect upon how Jesus, who was innocent of the charges levied against him, conducted his ministry. While he certainly challenged and even verbally attacked the religious leaders, with ordinary people he was gentle and loving. In our dealings with others, how do we treat them? Do we invite them to conversion and change or do we condemn and cajole? Do we encourage people to be more Christ-like or do we tell them they’re going to hell? Do we model Jesus or are we legalistic and immovable?
During this Passion Week, as we strive to become more like Christ, may each of us grow in becoming more compassionate toward others and look upon them with love and mercy.
