see none but the real child of God

In the story of the woman taken in adultery, Jesus refused to get drawn into making a judgment against her. In fact, he turned the tables on those who tried to trap him. Convicted by their own consciousness, aware of their own past failings, they left the scene one by one until only Jesus, the woman, and his disciples remained. This is the part of the story I love best. He had been stooped down on the ground. When they were all gone it says...when Jesus had lifted himself up...and saw none but the woman... There is something we can all learn to emulate. Before addressing her he lifted himself up. He lifted up his own thoughts, spiritualized his thinking. I think I would have had to clear my thoughts about those others who had tried to trap her. I might have prayed to know that everyone is in reality a child of God, reflecting purity and kindness, and to know that only good could be present. Once his thought was clear, it was only natural that 'he saw none but the woman'. He saw no other woman standing there but the pure and innocent daughter of God.

Now how often, when we are confronted with some gossip about someone in the office or a rumor about someone we know, do we follow this path? Are we not inclined to believe the false picture? What do we think of the person savoring this information? Do we refuse to entertain any such idea about someone, either as a sinner or a spreader of lies? Jesus chose to lift himself up before he dealt with anyone else. When he was ready, all he could see as the reality was someone created in the image and likeness of God, just as it says in Genesis One.

It is interesting that she did not run away once her accusers had left. She remained in the presence of the Christ. Perhaps she was drawn to someone who could be so pure and spiritual, remain unruffled in the midst of conflict. She must have seen something spiritual about him because when he asks her if anyone has condemned her she answers 'No man, Lord'. He is quick to lovingly assure her that he does not condemn her either. She is free to go, but she is to sin no more.

Mrs. Eddy writes, "Truth makes a new creature, in whom old things pass away and 'all things are become new'." That is what prayer can do. Reliance on divine Truth shows us how to let go of all those ways of thinking of behaving that lead to sin or sickness or lack. All things become new and fresh and pure. Good is always on our side.