I don’t remember if the adjective “superabundance” is an English word or if the labeling as an adjective is even correct. I have no idea! However, I have chosen to speak about that word today in connection to my sense of the meaning of God’s Love for us (all of us, without exception) as we gradually round up the Lenten season. The gospel of John (3:16) spoke directly about it. It says: “For God so loved the world that He sent His only Son so that whoever believes in Him may not die but have eternal life.”
“God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world but that all may have life through Him.” In another place (John 10:10), Jesus Christ spoke about Himself. He said: “I have come that you may have life abundantly.” That’s where I took the adjective I used at the beginning of this reflection. We live (we are alive) because of God’s superabundant love.
Today’s gospel seems to take off from last Sunday’s, which discussed the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:12-32). Today, it’s not about a son but a daughter. She committed adultery and was brought before Jesus to feel what he would say (John 8:1-11). Perhaps they wanted Jesus to condemn her for committing adultery. He did not condemn her; he saved her life from public shame. He restored her place in God’s heart, teaching us that we all make mistakes or commit sin. This action is instructive on several levels, but one lesson from it is that it is not the sins we commit or the mistakes we make that give us our name. God’s mercy and grace define our identity and give us a name. We are not “sinners” destined to die. We are God’s children, favored 100%, and specially made for greatness.
So, my dear sisters and brothers, do not let anyone push us into desperation or abuse or the pit, and tell you that’s where you belong. Jump out with all the energy you can muster, and announce that no one can condemn you because you have been redeemed by the precious blood of the Lamb. Speak loudly to yourself and announce that God has saved you because He loves you. This validation is crucial today, especially if you understand today’s gospel message.
Jesus Christ did not remain in the grave for his murderers to laugh at him; he rose victoriously and triumphantly. Brothers and sisters, that’s the meaning of the Easter event. We are not yet there at the event of the celebration of Easter, according to the Church’s calendar. However, we must rise like him every day from the pit that shame wants to bury into. His Cross is our Crown!