Then he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Luke 7: 48-50

Dear Friends,

Jesus had been invited to Simon the Pharisee’s home for dinner. Simon thought it would be interesting to question the carpenter-preacher about His unorthodox views. But it wasn’t a real dinner-party. There was no warmth, no traditional signs of welcome. But that changed dramatically when a woman with an unsavory past showed up. Jesus had clearly touched her heart, and so she had to show Him her thanks. She brought a jar of precious alabaster for Jesus. She washed and kissed His feet. The other respectable guests were horrified. Didn’t Jesus know this woman’s reputation? After all, the tradition was to keep a safe distance from sinners, ignore them at the marketplace lest they be contaminated.
Jesus makes this unwelcome guest feel very special. He tells her that she should be at peace, that she is deeply loved, and has a whole new life to enjoy. He tells her that she is forgiven. As soon as He does, Jesus becomes the second unwelcome guest. He tells Simon ands the other self-righteous people that their religiosity has made them narrow and cold.
Jesus got into lots of trouble by forgiving sinners. He made the religious leaders cringe at this challenge to their tradition. That night Jesus left Simon’s house with their barbed insults ringing in his ears. But He could not and would not stop showing God’s extraordinary love. The authorities would eventually try to get rid of Him. But even on the cross, gasping for breath, Jesus looked down at them, and yes, forgave even them.

Peace,

Father Jerry