Jesus Is The Focus

Continuing thoughts on John 8:1-11.  Last week I shared how the local pastor smacked down the congregation for their judgement and condemnation of last year's Runaway Bride, whom was visiting me and is now in hiding.

His idea was that when "sinners" cross our path we are to be like Jesus was with the woman "caught in adultery".

1.  Make your life about pardon, not punishment!
When you fail, do you need punishment or pardon - not only from God but your peers as well?
Do not seek to condemn others, treat everyone as persons and not pawns to make yourself appear or feel better!
Take the attention off of those in sin, focus yourself and them on the cross.

2.  Point to the cross!
Jesus went to the cross for a reason - our sins separating us from God.  His death bought our forgiveness and completed the promise (covenant) made between Abraham and God - oh so long ago!

3.  Be a safe place for sinners!
The wages of sin is death.  It is not a time out, a broken down car or a tooth cavity!
We each deserve death for our willingness to sin.
Just as you have found forgiveness in Jesus - show those in sin the way to the cross!


In my dealings with RB, I have been on my guard to not condemn her for what she has done.  She knows she has failed mightily - herself, her family, her husband, her faith.  She fears the same may hold true for her new husband and his family.  Her separation from her family is more or less a given.  My place is to continue to love her, even in her sin and show her once again Jesus and the cross.

And of interest was her parents being at this church this morning.  She obviously in shock, but her parents' faces told me the message - their daughter was forgiven and very much loved.  I should also mention that the parents brought first husband with them!

So I close this tale with the knowledge her family is reconciled, she is returning with her parents to reunite with her current husband and Tuesday will probably be the last I see of her.  Equally as important in this story, she and her abandoned husband have come to terms of some sort.  Probably as much for her mental health as his.  But, no he was not seated with them.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow.....