March 22, 2026: The Good News Is Rooted in Justice, Mercy and Faithfulness
John 8: 2-11

Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching

As we draw closer to Holy Week, we witness the mounting tension between Jesus and the religious authorities. In this week ’s Gospel, a moment of teaching in the Temple is abruptly interrupted as scribes and Pharisees drag a woman caught in adultery before Jesus. Their goal is a "lose-lose” trap: either Jesus contradicts Mosaic Law, or he abandons his message of grace.

Instead of engaging in legalistic spectacle, Jesus flips the script. By inviting those without sin to cast the first stone, he moves the focus from public punishment to personal transformation. In the end, he defuses the trap, condemning no one and restoring the woman ’s dignity.

While Jesus ’ ministry was deeply rooted in the Torah, his actions often called for a radical reinterpretation of the Law —an approach that emphasized human life over strict adherence. He reminds us that the "weightier matters" of the law, as seen in Matthew 23:23, are justice, mercy, and faith.

This Week ’s Reflection:

As we navigate the rules and expectations of our lives, how can we choose the most compassionate path? Join us as we explore how Jesus avoids the traps of judgment to focus on the humanity in all of us.

The way we worship is the way we live.

Worship is the work of the people, bringing together our fullest selves in a communal act of love and gratitude.  Each voice is important; each person is valued as the Spirit draws out our authentic gifts and talents, shared in the ever-widening circle of God’s people.  We hope you’ll join us this week as we gather to worship the God of extravagant welcome.