Saturday, March 28, 2015
A Forgiveness Reflection from Diane DuBois
We have all been in
situations that were so awkward and uncomfortable that no one involved knew how
to respond. In this passage, we are
presented with a very awkward moment, but instead Luke paints a picture of
God’s love and ultimate forgiveness, as well as an example of true thankfulness
and love in response to that grace.
Simon the Pharisee has invited Jesus to his house for a meal. However, an uninvited, sinful woman comes to
Jesus with what was likely her most prized possession, an alabaster jar of
perfume, and pours it on Jesus’ feet while her tears and hair anoint His feet,
showing the respect and honor Simon neglected to demonstrate.
Jesus recognizes the tension and tells a
parable, the point of which is that the person who is forgiven the largest debt
will love more than the person who is forgiven the smaller debt. Simon seems to “get it,” but Jesus
continues. He asks, “Do you see this
woman? . . .she has not stopped kissing my feet. . .she has anointed my feet
with ointment. Therefore, I tell you,
her sins, which were many, have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love.
. . .” Instead of seeing this woman for
who she truly is, all Simon could see is a sinner behaving inappropriately.
This story makes me
question what I truly ”see” as I encounter the diversity around Milwaukee. Do I see only outside appearances of
different ethnicities, only the alcoholic, drug addict, prostitute, or mentally
ill and fail to see people of God in need and equally deserving of His grace
and forgiveness? Am I as guilty of the
same judgmental attitude as Simon? The
truth is that Jesus has rescued all of his followers whatever their
circumstances from eternal death. The
power of His love and forgiveness belongs to us all.
Heavenly Father, Help us to cut through the awkward
moments. Open our eyes to see those
people who are most needy of God’s grace and love, including ourselves. Help us appreciate the depth of your mercy
and be grateful for your forgiveness.
Amen.
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