You (Simon the Pharisee) neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she (the “sinful” woman) has anointed my feet with rare perfume. I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” Luke 7:44-47 (NLT)
Lord Jesus, nothing is more daily than opportunities to forgive; nothing is more glorious than the way you love us; and nothing is more important than putting the two together.
We’re everywhere in this story. We’re Simon, seeing people through the lens of irritation, criticism, and judgment. Forgive us for thinking anybody needs your mercy and grace more than us. We have zero stones to throw, but real situations to steward.
We’re the broken and beloved woman at your feet. Our sins are just as numerous as hers, just not as obvious to us. Though we believe you’ve forgiven all of our sins—past, present, and future—make it fresh, real, and humbling. How is it possible we ever lose the wonder of our forgiveness?
Intensify our love for you, Jesus, in response to your great, unwavering love for us. Precisely because we’ll get irritated, hurt, and offended till heaven, grant us bigger hearts, thicker skin, and quicker repentances. So very Amen we pray, in your kind and powerful name.
