Psalm Psalm 22:1-6 (R. 4abc)
Gospel John 8:1-11
By: Edmund Elorm Ackuaku
Just wait
We enter the fifth week of Lent with the focus on the triumph of good over evil. This is recounted in the readings of today. The theme of trust and hope solely in God amidst injustice spans through the readings of today. The two readings concern cases dealing with Adultery; one was a forgery and the other true. The figures involved were females and it was a Juridical setting taking Jewish laws as the rod of measurement. The two readings culminate in a sort of granting mercy and vindication of the victims through God's intervention.
The first reading narrates false allegations levelled against Susanna by two Elders who, eventually, contradicted one another in the course of Daniel's interrogation of the two Elders. Susanna was saved. Notice, however, that we are reading from the third part of Daniel which has Greek polishing and this part is considered as Deuterocanonical. This tells us, basically, about reactions to injustices. The only thing to do is to WAIT for God's intervention.
The Gospel narrates, the popular story of the woman caught in adultery and she was rescued by Jesus. Adultery is treated as a high-ranked sin among the Jews for which the victims are put to death (cf. Lev. 20: 10) disgracefully. She was also rescued.
Our focus shall be on 3 important things that gave the clue that nothing could be done to save these two women.
The first was the fact that 2 people, elders testified against Susanna (1st reading) and the mention of elders testifying against the 'adulterous woman' in the Gospel (cf. Jn. 8:9). The testimony of two people is enough to convict one of a crime whether it was actually committed or not (cf. Nm. 35:30) and even elders. These are experienced men in society. For them to testify against you is serious. Two Elders for Susanna and more than two for the adulterous woman.
The second important thing was that they were being attacked by their own people. These were Jews working against fellows Jews. Nothing seems deadly than when your own people work against you for no real good reason. This group constitutes not only family but friends, your very own, those who can protect you against evil and injustice. These are people who know you. These women are in trouble now.
The final thing was their being women. Jewish laws do not allow the take of women in whatever sphere. When it comes to business, serious issues concerning religion and politics, women are not counted or less considered. They are not even allowed to utter words in defence of their crimes. Women are looked down upon. To the extent that allegations of adultery were levelled against them means that they would not even be heard. Public appearance, proclamation of their crimes and humiliation are needed so that the stipulated punishment (death by stoning as evident in the Gospel, v.5) is meted out. Notice also that women are considered weak and vulnerable and these two are no exceptions.
This is their state of helplessness and hopelessness. At this point nothing can be done except to WAIT for God's intervention. God, really, listened to their cries and attended to them immediately for he promised it.
This is what happens to us when nothing seems to work. In our states of helplessness and we are led to be put to death, let us be assured that our vindicator will arise and defend our cause.
Just Wait and Hope. Pray !!!
May the Lord come to our assistance
Amen
#40DaysInTheDesrt
#PaxEtBonum
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