But Jesus Says…

Jesus received an invitation to have dinner at a Pharisee’s house which He accepted. He was reclining at the table when a woman in that town, ‘who lived a sinful life’ came there with an alabaster jar of perfume (Luke 7:37). ‘As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them”’ (Luke 7:38, NIV). 

 I’m sure many of us reading Luke 7:36-39 would have the same thoughts as the Pharisee in verse 39: ‘Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw it, he said to himself, ‘If this Man were a prophet, He would surely know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching Him–for she is a notorious sinner (a social outcast, devoted to sin).’ How could this woman, whilst she was still living a sinful life, anoint Jesus’ feet and even expect that He would allow her to do so? Jesus responds in a very different way, which you can read in verses 40-47. 

 How often do we actually categorise and limit people because of the sin we see in their lives, even after they have repented and asked for forgiveness? We actually keep them away from Jesus’ forgiveness and mercy. But Jesus saw this woman’s heart, and her brokenness resulting from her ongoing sin. He accepted her, even before she said a word, and He forgave her. He gave her a new life, a chance to start over.

 How can we not do the same? This may be difficult if you have maybe been hurt by someone else’s sin, but you can choose to allow the Lord into this pain and allow Him to also bring healing to you. The journey of building trust can then begin. 

 On the other hand, you may feel you are like this woman who is still being judged and looked down upon, even after you have repented and asked for forgiveness. Maybe you are trying to build trust again and start over, but people keep reminding you of your sins and failures. In verse 48 Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 

 The guests were still doubting who this Jesus was who could forgive her sins. But Jesus took no notice of them. He looked at the woman whom people were still judging, and He said, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace” (Luke 7:50, NIV).

 When you come in repentance before Jesus, He says, “Your sins are forgiven. Your faith has saved you. Go in peace”. This is your identity and your starting point, not what people say. He will show you the way forward if you choose to follow Him.