Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Emmanuel Ferrer SVD – Baguio City
Monday 5th Week of Lent
Introduction
A fourth-year college student once confided during retreat that her barkada pressured her to spread a false story to destroy someone’s reputation. When she refused, she was ousted from the group. Though painful, she chose to protect her values rather than compromise them. “It was hard,” she said, “to have no friends for a time, but it’s better than to have wrong friends.”
Her courage is a clear manifestation of faith in the Lord. She reminds us of Susannah in the First Reading, who chose to fall into the power of her accusers rather than sin before God.
Gossip as Modern Stoning
In the Gospel, the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery to be stoned according to the Law of Moses. Today, people may not stone sinners physically, but they often “stone” them with gossip. Gossip destroys reputations, undermines goodness, and wounds deeply.
Jesus did not condemn the woman; He showed compassion and offered her a chance to change. Likewise, gossiping about those who falter will not help them. It only worsens their situation. What they need is understanding, guidance, and love.
Our Call
If we are close to someone who has gone astray, the best response is not gossip but conversation — gentle correction, encouragement, and compassion. As Susannah experienced, God gives justice to those who cling to what is right.
Conclusion
The student who refused to gossip teaches us that true friendship is not about belonging to the wrong crowd but about standing firm in truth. Jesus calls us to be channels of mercy, not agents of destruction.
“Lord, help me to resist the temptation to gossip. Teach me to speak words that heal, to act with compassion, and to defend truth with courage.”
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