Luke 7:36-38
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Take a moment to settle into your surroundings and then begin to recognize your breath. As you breathe in, call on the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
For the next three meditations we’ll explore the story of the “immoral woman” who anointed Jesus’ feet. Read the entire story in Luke 7:36-50 and the focus in on the first part, Luke 7:36-38.
If we look through the Gospels, we find four distinct situations in which Jesus was anointed by a woman. The account in Luke chapter seven occurs early in Jesus’ ministry soon after he appointed the twelve apostles, and Luke is the only writer who records the event. As a researcher intent on providing an “accurate account,” Luke includes several details in his Gospel about Jesus’ relationship to women that the other writers overlook.
Women had few if any rights in first century Israel and were economically dependent on the male members of their family. It is said that many of the first century religious leaders of Israel believed that women did not possess souls and consequently were of little importance. It is no wonder that women were drawn to Jesus - they were systematically reminded of the poverty of their spirit.
Imagine for a moment being without status or means to support yourself. Then imagine Jesus looking at you and really seeing you. Imagine him treating you as if you were valuable to him. Take these thoughts and turn them into a prayer as you share them with Jesus.
Read Luke 7:36-38 again.
We can only guess at the conditions that landed this woman in such a desperate state. It’s highly probable that she did not choose a life of immorality, but had it thrust upon her by her life circumstances. What we do see is someone who recognizes that Jesus is her only hope. She is aware of the poverty of her spirit, and according to Jesus the Kingdom of Heaven is hers.
Take some time to think about the ways your own life circumstances have either made it easier or more difficult to recognize your need for Jesus. Talk openly with him about this and then listen to him for a while.
What might Jesus be saying to you through the actions of the immoral woman today?
What will you do in response?
Subscribe here to receive these guided meditations free by email Monday-Friday each week. If you find these meditations helpful, please forward them to a couple of friends.
The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
