“When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” 40 Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. 41 “Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii,[c] and the other fifty. 42 Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.” “You have judged correctly,” Jesus said. 44 Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. 47 Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” 48 Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Luke 7.39-50
Some stories we read need little interpretation but only application. This is one of those stories.
The sinful woman enters the house and honors Jesus. Simon the Pharisee fails to demonstrate extravagant love for the Savior. The point Jesus makes is clear: those who have been forgiven much love much, while those who are forgiven little love little. The contrast between the woman’s deep love and her need for Christ makes Simon’s response pale in comparison.
I have met many Christians. Some are very pious, righteous, and seemingly better than others. These people are either truly closer to God or self-righteous in their thinking. Perhaps they are like the Pharisee who has been “forgiven little.” I fall, I hope, into the category of one who has been forgiven much. I recognize the great expanse of my own waywardness and sin. I know that without Christ I am utterly lost. Therefore, in worship, prayer, and daily life, I seek to demonstrate my love for the Lord. Yet even in this, I fail. I am not nearly as devout, committed, or disciplined as I should be. I still seek forgiveness for not fully committing every moment of my life to Him.
I see this same dynamic in those who talk about God as if He were their best friend. We witness in some an intimacy that belongs to people who simply know God. I would place Mother Teresa in this category, along with Billy Graham, the disciple John, and even some ordinary friends who share a special connection with Christ.
It’s not that we can’t all have such a connection with the Lord—He is near and ready to receive us. All Jesus wants in return is our heartfelt love and devotion.
Christ comes as a friend to sinners. Is He your friend? Have you welcomed Him in? Have you come to a moment of surrender to the King of Kings, inviting Jesus to take control of every part of your life? Why not do so today? Find yourself before the cross, sitting at the throne of God—He is willing and waiting. He will receive you, offering you love and forgiveness you do not deserve.
“O Lord God, You are faithful to Your people. You invite all to come before You. Thank You, Lord, for saving me and allowing me to walk in newness of life. I will never be perfect—but I will seek to walk closer to Your will. Fill me with Your love and Spirit. Help me know the power of grace. For You are good, and Your love endures forever.” Amen.