Condemned

She had every right to be condemned. She was guilty. She had no excuses. She had been caught and like the old saying goes, "if you do the crime you have to do the time." She knew she was guilty more than anybody in the room. Eyewitnesses had testified. No one refuted their claims and neither did she.

The law was pretty cut and dry on the matter. She knew she deserved the death sentence by execution. In that moment a flood of memories came flashing through her mind. Memories of happier days and better choices. Then the memories began to blur as the tears began to fall. They say hindsight is 20/20. In her case she could see how one choice to compromise right from wrong led to one bad decision after another leading her to stand before the judge, jury, and all those observers.

In her mind the question of, "Why," crossed her mind thousands of times. Why did she not stand her ground? Why did she give into negative peer pressure? Why did she choose to disobey the law? Why did she ever think she would get away with it and not face the consequences?

Then the judge spoke. With her head bowed she awaited her sentence condemning her to execution. Her head jerked up in bewilderment when she heard the judge say, "Woman where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you? Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more." [John 8:10-11]

With that the woman caught in adultery was pardoned. Though guilty she was forgiven and set free.

 I have been that guilty person deserving judgment but being bewildered by extravagant grace. I have known God's rich grace lavished on me undeserved. [Eph 1:7-8] Though deserving of condemnation I have been set free. So have you. Will we not too extend grace to others freely has we received from a gracious and patient Savior.