Annan Affotey
Credit: yellowzine.com
Jesus said to the Pharisee, “Simon, I have something to say to you.”
“Teacher, what is it?” Simon replied.
Jesus told him, “Two people were in debt to a moneylender. One of them owed him 500 silver coins, and the other owed him 50. Since neither of them could pay him back, the moneylender said that they didn't have to pay him anything. Which one of them will like him more?”
Simon answered, “I suppose it would be the one who had owed more and didn't have to pay it back.”
“You are right,” Jesus said.
He turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Have you noticed this woman? When I came into your home, you didn't give me any water so I could wash my feet. But she has washed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. You didn't greet me with a kiss, but from the time I came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet. You didn't even pour olive oil on my head, but she has poured expensive perfume on my feet. So I tell you that all her sins are forgiven, and that is why she has shown great love. But anyone who has been forgiven for only a little will show only a little love.”
Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.” Luke 7: 40-49
When Jesus met Simon the Pharisees he looked him square in the eyes. Against his better judgement, Simon knew that Jesus was special, and he wanted to get close to him. It's hard to imagine a contemporary encounter. I think it might be like a successful politician, or a rich successful entrepreneur. They will be used to people fawning and desperately wanting to see them. Jesus did not. He treated Simon in a similar way to everyone else. He was civil and friendly, but he did not given Simon any more, or any less because of his status. He also pointed out to Simon that the way Simon was treating him was dishonouring. Mary Magdalene in contrast showed Jesus that she knew his worth. Jesus was touched. We can follow Jesus' example....and Mary's.
PRAYER: I honour you by bowing at your feet. I love you with my whole heart.
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