"And who is without sin, be the first among you."
Exceptional growth can only come from an immense amount of humility. But for the rest of us, we are trapped and weighted beneath our doubt and impoverished prayers of self-righteousness. I will be the first to admit that I am definitely part of the crowd that Jesus speaks too.
Several aspects of this scripture can show us the way. One is that, the mob is capable of self-awareness. It is made clear that they know to hate sin, but they would not condemn another if they were condemning themselves.
Another part of this that speaks to us is that the oldest steps away first. In a way, it is disheartening to realize that great self-knowledge only comes in long waves of time and thought. It may not have been a man of great piety, but one who knew of his own sin.
The last thought that comes to my mind as I read events currently reflecting our time, is of the message of Christ in his action. He is described as looking down and writing. It is then said that he looks up. Rather than acknowledge the sickness that is fueled by anger and pride, he looks up to meet a woman who is sick as well from a lack of self worth. Christ's mercy meets her heart that is ready for mercy.
In this everyday life, surrounded by Godless messages of propaganda, we are called heart, mind and soul to have total faith in Christ. Self-awareness can come through prayer. The Holy Ghost is there to bring the grace of God where He wills it. But it takes time. When a priest says we must die to self, the meaning is that we are made naked and totally aware of our selfishness and pride. It is only then that our own heart, mind and soul can fully accept Jesus Christ's mercy.
