Appreciating God’s Forgiveness

Appreciating God’s Forgiveness

Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven–for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.”

Luke 7:47

In Luke 7, we see that Jesus is well into His ministry. His deeds had spread so far that a Roman Centurion knew about Him. He also understood Jesus’ power and asked that the healing might happen from afar. Shortly afterward, Jesus raises a man from the dead. This miracle caused the people to proclaim that He was a prophet and that God had visited His people (v. 16). It is in this context that a Pharisee invites Jesus over to his house to share a meal.

It is surprising to see how careless this man was in his hosting responsibilities (v. 44-46). It would have been common for him to offer Jesus a kiss as a sign of respect and fellowship. We would expect the Pharisee to be excited to show such familiarity with Jesus. Also, due to them wearing sandals and the dusty roads they walked on, it was a host’s responsibility to wash their guest’s feet. At the very least, he should provide the means to do so. And yet the host ignored both of these obligations. While inviting Jesus over could have been a sign of submission, the lack of basic hospitality shows that he was arrogant towards his guest. He viewed them at the very least as on equal terms.

At this dinner, a woman enters the house and weeps over Jesus’ feet. She uses her tears and hair to wash his feet. Then she kisses his feet and anoints them with oil. It was well known among the city that she was a sinner. It was her acknowledgment of that sin that led her to show such great love to Jesus. There is a humility in her acts, showing lavish appreciation for his feet. Most people would view His feet as too disgusting to do such things to. She was just thankful for an opportunity to touch any part of her Savior and to show Him honor. Pride had no place in her heart, if only she could be blessed by this great Prophet.

What was the difference between these two people? Jesus points out that only one of them recognized their need for forgiveness. As we partake of the Lord’s Supper, it is an opportunity to remember our own need for forgiveness. It also gives us a chance to evaluate our attitude towards our Lord. Have we showered Him with love and adoration? Have we submitted ourselves to His will and His law? Or do we view Jesus as lucky to have a relationship with us? If we are not praising God consistently in our lives, and if we refuse to serve Him will all of our heart, are we truly honoring?

Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven–for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.”

Luke 7:47