Morality [or ethics] is not a subject; it is a life put to the test in dozens of moments. Paul Tillich
Meditation: In a time like this, we see much immoral and unethical behavior on TV and in our daily interactions between people. And this is being declared as the “new normal”. Our response cannot be about upholding certain values and traditions just for the sake of it. It can also not be about being super religious or self-righteous while looking down on others. No, moreover this time is about developing character. We are being tested daily in dozens of moments… “Do I say something or do I keep my mouth shut?” “Do I accept that ‘politically correct’ is no longer existent or are there more good reasons to monitor my prejudices and the use of my words?” This is a time when our character is being tested, not just our behavior. Jesus was an example of living a deeply ethical and moral life. He individuated from those who tried to either make him take their side or to accuse him. And how did he do it? He went inward. He did not react. He meditated and sought the connection with the Source of all Life before answering. He was tested in many ways, and he developed the wisdom to neither get manipulated nor trapped. He lived such a spiritually grounded and ethically independent life that he has become the role model for his followers whenever they encounter those test moments in life.
Prayer: God of wisdom and strength, when we get tested, let us bend down and write on the ground before we react. When we get tempted, let us not fall for the trap. When the values we stand for are being eliminated all around us, let us still stand up for what we believe in. Fill us with Your Spirit today. And fill us again tomorrow when the character tests will await us around every corner. Thank You for the role modeling of Jesus. Help us discern, help us remain true to who we are and to whose we are. Give us strength. Amen
They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. John 8:6
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