Luke 7:39-43

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.

Re-read the entire story of the woman who anoints Jesus’ feet in Luke 7:36-50 paying special attention to verses 39-43.

We don’t know why Simon invited Jesus to his house. It’s possible that he was curious about the unusual rabbi whose fame was spreading throughout the common folk of Israel. Or perhaps Simon just wanted a chance to grill Jesus and find proof that he was a fraud. What he did not expect is that an “immoral” woman (whom he somehow recognizes) would show up and pour out extravagant worship on Jesus.

Simon has no room in his narrow view of the world to process what is unfolding right in his dining room.

Take a moment to imagine what Simon is feeling toward Jesus and toward the woman as he watches. Are any of these feeling familiar to you? Consider asking Jesus to speak to you about this.

Read Luke 7:39-43 again.

Take a moment to meditate on these words quoted by the Apostle Paul in his letter to Jesus followers in and around Rome several decades after Jesus’ death and resurrection:

“No one is righteous—

not even one.

No one is truly wise;

no one is seeking God.

All have turned away;

all have become useless.

No one does good,

not a single one.” – Romans 3:10-11 (see also Psalm 14:1-3, Psalm 53:1-3)

We may not have fallen into blatant immorality in our lifetimes, but we all have turned away from God to one degree or another and severed our relationship with God. That’s the natural consequence of attempting to live life on our own without God.

Now meditate on Jesus’ words to Simon: “…neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, cancelling their debts.”

For the remainder of this time of reflection, express your thoughts and feelings about this to Jesus and listen to him.

What do you sense Jesus saying to you today?

How do you intend to respond to him?

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