Steve Nelson

Suddenly the solemnity of the reverent temple atmosphere is interrupted. Loud voices break through the peace and stillness. A riotous commotion is heard, as boisterous and abrasive men, leaders in the church, move quickly toward Jesus parading their helpless victim. Heartlessly, they bring the terror-stricken woman into into the sacred presence of God. With undeniable disgust — contempt and disdain you could see in their eyes — they march boldly before him.
Why her? Truthfully, there is no simple answer. Oftentimes, when suffering abuse, people have trouble letting go of their past hurt. They feel trapped by the betrayal they have suffered and the agony of pain — how vulnerable and unprepared they were to defend themselves — caught off guard when taken advantage of. The world a victim thought was safe, was in reality turned upside down the moment they were exploited, or betrayed — often by someone they truly trusted. For many, too many, this scenario is repeated over and again until they are fortunate to escape this cycle of repeated abuse and finally, hopefully, healing takes place. 
If you find yourself caught in a life that is out of control, headed towards self-destruction, remember this: Whatever circumstance you face, Jesus understands. When you think he can’t possibly relate to what you’re going through, he knows your heartaches, your loss and your pain. This woman who is being condemned in Jesus’ presence is a reminder for you to trust a God who also loves you supremely. Even when circumstances seem beyond your control, he has promised to bring you through your darkest hour and redeem you from the pit of destruction. How? His love and power are greater than any trial we will ever face and nothing is able to separate us from his amazing love. (Romans 8:39) (Stay tuned, part 4 is coming next time.)

(Steve Nelson is pastor at Seventh Day
Adventist Church in Powell.)