Then each of them went home, while Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning he came again to the temple. All the people came to him and he sat down and began to teach them. The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery; and making her stand before all of them, they said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” They said this to test him, so that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once again he bent down and wrote on the ground. When they heard it, they went away, one by one, beginning with the elders; and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, sir.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again.” John 7:53—8:11
Dear Auntie,
I am always amazed at how one day I can be so full of hope and faith and the very next my heart is on the ground. We were well asleep last night when someone threw rocks at our home, rousing us all in a panic. Papa went outside and found notes tied to the rocks which declared me to be a sinner, a fallen woman, and my parents sinners as well. They threatened violence to us as well. Papa tossed the notes in the fire but it was clear that he was terribly shook up. I learned from Mama what the notes had said this morning when Joseph arrived to continue to plan with my father. None of us got much sleep after that.
I insisted that they include me in the discussions since it had a bearing on my life directly. Reluctantly they agreed. I understand the men want to protect me and I love them for it. I also know that I need to be strong and aware as possible during these treacherous times. Despite the hurt and anger I feel, I am compelled to do everything in my power to protect the child, the promise of God within me. People can be so cruel and mean. Why is that? I know you too had some challenges during your pregnancy from stupid and cruel people. I hope you will lift me up in prayer as my spirits are surely flagging. More tomorrow.
All my love,
Mary
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