John 8:8

When Jesus is done launching the challenge to the crowd he crouches down again and continues to write on the ground. John 8:8 EFP 

It is interesting to note Jesus’ behavior. It is a combination of defiance and deference. His words are no doubt a challenge to the self-righteous and bloodthirsty mob with justice and maleficence on their mind. His words must have struck them like a blow to the midsection. Do they wander by him to glance at what he is writing? Do they see their names? Do they perceive their sins plainly stated on the dusty ground? Does their death-grip on the stones in their hands begin to loosen? The moment is tense.

But Jesus is not into confrontation, he is into conviction. He states his case and continues to write on the ground. He is not determined to corner them into submission. He leaves a crack in the door—an escape path. He does not glare at them with condemnation and accusatory stares. He humbly continues in deference to write on the ground. 

Just as I identify with the frightened woman, prone and pummeled by the consequences of her behavior, I also see a part of me in the self-righteous crew surrounding her—ready to mete out their brand of justice. I need to keep that part of me in check. I am not better than the worst of sinners. I stand condemned by my track record. I am condemned to die according to the law of the universe. The Law condemns me. But even as Jesus reminds me of my guilt, he also leads me, if I am willing, to the source of forgiveness and cleansing.