We can all remember times when people were unjustly condemned by the legal system or harshly treated. When passions are aroused, a mob mentality can take over and even those who are normally mild-mannered may howl for someone's blood. The story of Susanna is a case in point. The crowd believed the two elders because they were judges and 'important' people in the community. They did not question the witnesses or search for proof. Only the intervention of God through Daniel saved Susanna and exposed their corruption and treachery. We should question the statements of others and what we hear in the media - things are not always as they seem.

The mob mentality was at work in the story of the woman taken in adultery. They were ready to stone her - and there is no mention of her partner in the sin. They also saw a chance to trap Jesus. He agreed to their sentence - but stressed that the one without sin could cast the first stone. His writing in the sand and refusal to look at them provoked their consciences - they looked within and were ashamed at what they found. When we do not confront our own inner darkness we project it on other people or groups. Scapegoating is something people do all the time - in families, workplaces, societies, and churches. Jesus gave us a fine example in his own refusal to condemn the woman. When we find ourselves condemning others, it is time to do an honest examination of conscience.