CHURCH FATHERS – 5th Sunday of Lent C

Preaching on the Woman Caught in Adultery using key insights from the Church Fathers

Drawing upon the profound insights of the Church Fathers found in the excerpts from St. Thomas Aquinas’ Catena Aurea, here are some suggestions for priests and deacons preaching on the Woman Caught in Adultury (John 8:1-11), presented in contemporary language with a modern commentary:

Alcuin: During His passion, Jesus would spend His days in Jerusalem, teaching in the temple and performing miracles. In the evenings, He would return to Bethany to stay with Lazarus’ sisters. On the last day of the feast, after a full day of teaching in the temple, Jesus went to the Mount of Olives.

We can relate to Jesus’ routine during His passion by looking at the busy schedules of influential leaders and teachers who spend their days sharing knowledge and serving others. These individuals often work tirelessly, addressing the needs of the people, just as Jesus taught and performed miracles in the temple. In the evenings, like Jesus retreating to Bethany, they too seek the comfort of family and friends to rest and rejuvenate.

In the context of Jesus’ final day at the temple, we can draw parallels to the moments when individuals give their all before a significant life change. Just as Jesus dedicated His time to teaching and healing until the last day of the feast, people today may pour their energy into work, service, or personal relationships before embarking on a new phase of life.

The Mount of Olives, a significant location in Jesus’ journey, can be compared to modern-day retreats and sanctuaries. Today, people seek solace and spiritual connection in peaceful places like parks, nature reserves, or even quiet corners of their homes. As Jesus found solace in the Mount of Olives, we too can find rest in these spaces, away from the chaos of daily life.

Augustine: Christ’s choice to teach on the Mount of Olives is significant because it is associated with the ideas of anointing and chrism. “Christ” itself comes from the word “chrism”, which refers to oil used in religious ceremonies. Jesus anoints us to help us fight against evil.

Just as the Mount of Olives is associated with anointing and chrism, we have places of worship and learning that hold special meaning for us, such as churches, synagogues, mosques, or even schools and community centers.

The connection between “Christ” and “chrism” highlights the protective and empowering nature of faith. We can see parallels in how individuals seek strength and guidance through prayer, meditation, or other spiritual practices when facing adversity or fighting against injustice.

Jesus’ anointing of His followers to combat evil can be compared to contemporary individuals who receive guidance, strength, and courage from faith to address various societal problems. These problems might include discrimination, poverty, or environmental degradation. People of faith often draw on their beliefs to remain steadfast in their efforts to promote justice, love, and compassion in the face of these challenges.

Alcuin: Anointing with oil is soothing for tired and aching limbs. The Mount of Olives also represents the depth of Jesus’ compassion since “olive” in Greek is related to pity. This meaning is fitting since oil floats on top of other liquids, just as God’s mercy extends to all of His creations. The phrase “early in the morning” symbolizes the beginning of a new era of grace as Jesus enters the temple.

We can understand the significance of anointing with oil by considering how we seek relief for physical and emotional exhaustion. Just as oil soothes tired and aching limbs, we find comfort in various remedies, such as taking a warm bath, practicing yoga, or engaging in therapy. The Mount of Olives’ connection to compassion is mirrored in contemporary society’s appreciation for empathy and understanding in our personal relationships, communities, and global interactions.

The metaphor of oil floating on top of other liquids highlights the all-encompassing nature of God’s mercy, a concept that resonates with our belief in the universal value of kindness and forgiveness. In today’s interconnected world, we recognize the importance of extending compassion and mercy beyond our immediate circles, as global challenges require cooperation and a shared commitment to the common good.

The idea of “early in the morning” representing a new era of grace can be compared to the transformative power of significant events or experiences in our lives. Just as Jesus’ entrance to the temple marked a new phase in His ministry, we too encounter milestones that shape our personal and spiritual journeys. These defining moments can bring a fresh perspective and guide us toward a deeper understanding of our purpose and calling.

Bede: Next, it is implied that after Jesus began living in the temple (the Church), people from all nations would start believing in Him. That’s why people gathered around Him to listen to His teachings.

Bede’s interpretation of people gathering around Jesus from all nations can be seen in the global spread of Christianity and the diverse range of believers who embrace its teachings. As Jesus lived in the temple, symbolizing the Church, His message reached far beyond the borders of Israel, inspiring people from different cultures and backgrounds to follow His example.

Today, we see this in the worldwide presence of the Church and the many faith communities that come together to celebrate and learn from Christ’s teachings. Similarly, modern technology and mass media have further expanded the reach of religious messages, allowing individuals from various nations to access and engage with spiritual content.

Bede’s insight can be applied to contemporary leaders or visionaries who attract a global following. Their ideas and example inspire people from different walks of life to come together, learn, and support one another in creating positive change. These gatherings, be they physical or virtual, foster a sense of unity and collective purpose, just as people gathered around Jesus to listen and learn from Him.

Alcuin: Jesus sitting down to teach represents His humility in becoming human. People started recognizing Him as a friend and neighbor when He became one of us. However, while the ordinary people were impressed by Jesus’ words, the Scribes and Pharisees tried to trick Him with difficult questions. They brought a woman who was caught in the act of adultery and asked Jesus what should be done with her.

We can understand Jesus’ humility in becoming human and connecting with people as a friend and neighbor through the actions of relatable leaders and role models. These individuals have the ability to engage with people on a personal level, fostering trust and connection, much like Jesus did when He became one of us.

The Scribes and Pharisees’ attempt to challenge Jesus with difficult questions reflects the skepticism and questioning that leaders and public figures face today. Just as Jesus encountered those who sought to discredit Him, modern leaders often contend with criticism and doubt from those who disagree with their views or actions.

The woman caught in adultery can be seen as a symbol of vulnerability and the judgment individuals face when they make mistakes. In our society, people are often publicly scrutinized for their actions, particularly through social media and news outlets. Like the woman, they may find themselves exposed and subject to harsh judgment.

Jesus’ response to the Scribes and Pharisees, as well as His compassionate treatment of the woman, serve as a powerful reminder for contemporary Christians. We should strive to emulate Jesus’ empathy and wisdom in our interactions with others, especially when addressing sensitive issues or responding to those who challenge our beliefs.

Augustine: Jesus was already known to be quite lenient, which the Scribes and Pharisees had noticed. He fulfilled the prophecy that said He would be the embodiment of truth, meekness, and righteousness. As a teacher, He shared the truth; He showed His meekness when He didn’t use violence against His enemies; and He displayed righteousness when He judged fairly. The Scribes and Pharisees thought that if Jesus forgave the woman, He wouldn’t be upholding justice. They knew that the law commanded such people to be punished, but they also thought that if He forgave her, He would be seen as compassionate. So they asked Him what He thought about the situation, hoping to find a reason to accuse Him of breaking the law. Jesus managed to give a just answer while also remaining compassionate. He wrote on the ground with His finger.

People today may question leaders’ decisions and actions (similar to the Scribes and Pharisees) based on their perception of justice and compassion. As Jesus navigated the balance between upholding justice and demonstrating compassion, contemporary leaders must find ways to address societal challenges while considering the needs and circumstances of those involved.

Jesus’ response serves as an example of wisdom in the face of scrutiny and challenge. His actions demonstrate that it is possible to remain steadfast in one’s convictions while addressing complex issues with compassion and understanding.

Today, we encounter public figures who, like Jesus, strive to find a balance between justice and mercy. In doing so, they often face criticism from those who may believe they are being too lenient or too harsh. Despite these challenges, they persevere, guided by their commitment to doing what is right.

Augustine: Jesus bending down to write on the ground might mean that He’s saying sinful people should be remembered on Earth and not in heaven. Or maybe it’s a sign of humility. Writing on the ground could also symbolize that His law is meant for the fruitful Earth, not the lifeless stone of the tablets.

Jesus’ humility in bending down to write on the ground resonates with contemporary leaders who demonstrate humility in their interactions with others. They recognize their own shortcomings and strive to connect with people at all levels, showing that they value every individual, regardless of their status or position.

The idea of remembering sinful people on Earth rather than in heaven can be seen in our society’s emphasis on the importance of redemption, second chances, and personal growth. People are encouraged to learn from their mistakes and work towards becoming better versions of themselves.

Lastly, the interpretation of Jesus’ writing on the ground as symbolizing His law being meant for the fruitful Earth emphasizes the idea that laws and teachings should serve a practical purpose. They should be relevant and applicable to the world we live in, rather than being rigid or outdated.

Alcuin: The ground here represents the human heart which can produce either good or bad actions, and the finger represents discernment. This teaches us not to quickly judge others for their mistakes, but to first examine our own hearts with discernment.

In a world often quick to pass judgment, Alcuin’s insights remind us to practice self-examination and empathy. Instead of immediately criticizing or condemning others for their mistakes, we should first explore our own hearts and motivations, acknowledging our imperfections and striving to approach situations with compassion.

By recognizing the human heart’s capacity for both good and bad, we can cultivate a more forgiving and understanding society. Through discernment, we can avoid knee-jerk reactions and instead approach conflicts with a measured and thoughtful response.

Bede: Jesus writing on the ground might be a reminder that He’s the same God who wrote the law on stone.

By connecting Jesus’ actions in the temple with the God who wrote the law on stone, Bede highlights the unchanging nature of divine wisdom and justice. While the world around us may change, the fundamental values and teachings of our faith remain constant.

Augustine: Instead of saying “don’t stone her” which would go against the law, or “stone her”, which goes against His mission of mercy, Jesus said “whoever among you is without sin, cast the first stone”. This response is just. It recognizes that sin should be punished, but not by sinners; the law should be upheld, but not by those who break the law.

By proposing that only those without sin should cast the first stone, Jesus acknowledges the importance of consequences for transgressions while emphasizing the need for compassion and self-reflection.

This lesson remains relevant in contemporary society, where we often grapple with finding the appropriate balance between holding individuals accountable for their actions and offering forgiveness. Jesus’ response serves as a reminder that justice should be pursued and upheld by those who are themselves striving for righteousness and that we should avoid hypocritical judgment.

Gregory: Before judging others, we need to judge ourselves first. Someone who sees themselves as innocent can’t apply the standards of justice correctly to others.

The wisdom of judging ourselves before passing judgment on others, as illustrated in John 8, holds significant relevance in our contemporary world. In today’s complex society, we are often quick to criticize and condemn the actions of others while failing to acknowledge our own shortcomings.

By reflecting on our own behaviors, beliefs, and motivations, we develop a deeper understanding of human nature and the complexities of the world around us. This self-awareness fosters empathy and compassion, which are essential components of a just and fair society.

Acknowledging our own imperfections enables us to apply the standards of justice more equitably. When we recognize that we too are capable of making mistakes and learning from them, we become less likely to hold others to unattainable standards of perfection.

Augustine: Jesus, by responding this way, caused her accusers to examine themselves, find themselves guilty, and leave. The older ones might have been more aware of their own faults. Only Jesus and the woman were left.

As the older accusers demonstrated, a deeper understanding of one’s own faults can lead to a more compassionate and forgiving attitude towards others.

The scene’s culmination, with only Jesus and the woman remaining, symbolizes the ultimate goal of fostering empathy and mercy. When we remove judgmental attitudes and focus on understanding and compassion, we create space for healing, growth, and forgiveness.

Alcuin: This shows us that before and after punishing someone for a sin, we should consider whether we’ve committed the same or similar faults ourselves.

By considering our own faults and mistakes, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human nature and the challenges we all face. This self-awareness can prevent us from being overly judgmental and instead encourage a more compassionate approach to addressing wrongdoing.

Reflecting on our own experiences allows us to better understand the circumstances and motivations behind other people’s actions. This understanding can lead to more equitable and just solutions that promote healing and growth, rather than perpetuating cycles of punishment and resentment.

Augustine: The woman must have been afraid, expecting punishment from someone who was sinless. But Jesus, who had defended her with justice, now showed her mercy. He asked, “Where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you?” She said no. We’ve heard the voice of justice; now let’s hear the voice of mercy. “Then neither do I condemn you.” Jesus didn’t approve of her sin. If He did, He would have said, “Go, live as you want. No matter how great your sins are, I’ll save you from hell.” But He didn’t say that. Let’s remember that the Lord is gracious and righteous.

Jesus’ choice to show mercy, despite having defended the woman with justice, serves as a poignant example of the transformative power of compassion and forgiveness. His question, “Has no one condemned you?” and subsequent declaration, “Neither do I condemn you,” demonstrate that mercy does not negate the importance of justice, but rather provides an alternative path towards healing and growth.

We can draw inspiration from this story by striving to approach difficult situations with a balance of justice and mercy. Rather than seeking to punish or condemn those who have made mistakes, we should consider offering empathy, understanding, and opportunities for redemption.

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Early Church Fathers Overview: Snapshot of the Fathers

by Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio
Crossroads Initiative