Love That Knows It Has Been Forgiven

At Simon’s table, Jesus exposes the difference between noticing another person’s sins and recognizing our own need for mercy. Simon sees the woman’s reputation; Jesus draws attention to her tears, kisses, and costly care. His story of two debtors makes the issue plain: neither debtor can repay, and both depend on the lender’s forgiveness. The difference in their debts becomes a way to explain the difference in their love. The woman’s devotion is not presented as a payment that purchases pardon. Jesus identifies her faith as the means by which she has been saved, and her love displays the depth of her gratitude. Simon’s respectable hospitality cannot conceal his coldness. For those at the table, and for us, the searching question is whether awareness of sin produces contempt toward others or grateful affection toward Jesus. Forgiven people have reason to love generously.

Put the Word into practice

Set aside ten minutes to confess a specific sin to Jesus and thank him for his forgiveness, deliberately replacing comparison with another person’s failures with gratitude for mercy.

Search the Scripture

How does the fact that neither debtor could repay challenge the way you compare yourself with the woman or with Simon?

A prayerful response

Jesus, forgive my habit of measuring other people while overlooking my own need. Give me honest repentance and a grateful heart. Let my love for you become attentive, generous, and unashamed. Amen.