“The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want” – Ps 23:1

False accusations are painful and draining to the human person. It is further complicated when these accusations appear compelling but are false, and yet no one seems to give listening ears to entertain a different position. The episode between Susannah and the elders in the first reading reveals the feeling of being falsely accused and even more is being imprisoned or punished for crimes you never committed.

The Gospel, too, presents another situation that is similar to our first reading. In both situations, we see the display of insincerity and patriarchal privilege in the accusation of Susannah and the woman in the Gospel. St Paul admonishes us to avoid the ‘holier than thou' attitude which only portrays others as bad or sinful “since all have sinned and fall short of God's glory” (Romans 3:23).

Mindful that no one is without sin, there is the need to help each other to experience a deeper relationship with Jesus that leads to repentance. Hence, in our families, religious communities, institutions and workplaces, we must rise above what I refer to as the ‘pull him/her down' (PhD) syndrome to a compassionate and loving relationships that encourage people to come into the presence of the Lord to savour the sweetness of God's love and forgiveness.

Jesus, our Good shepherd is always present and attentive to his people in all situations. He never ceases to deliver and protect the helpless innocent from evil. While Jesus is always with us and protecting us, we are called to a life of sincerity, trust and belief in God. Susannah and the woman in the Gospel were ‘saved' from the evil plans of the people because of their sincerity and trust in the mercy of God, we are called to do the same. May god accompany us with his grace and wisdom.