Text: Luke 7:37-50; Luke 8:1-3
Event(s): A sinful woman is forgiven; many women minister to Jesus
Luke 7:37 “a woman in the city who was a sinner” The description of this woman suggests that she was a prostitute. This is not to be confused with the account of when Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus the week before His death/burial. That event is found in John 12 and takes place much later.
Luke 7:47 “for she loved much” the intensity of our love tends to be proportionate to our perception of the greatness of the forgiveness we have received. It is very hard for someone who recognizes the depths of what they have been forgiven of, to quickly jump to judgment of others.
Luke 7:50 “your faith has saved you” The word saved is the Greek word, sozo which means to be saved from spiritual death by forgiving sin and its effects. It means to give new life, and to cause to have a new heart.
Today’s Takeaway: The most forgiving people are those who know, value and appreciate the forgiveness that has been extended to them. They are the ones who say, “but for the grace of God, there I go too.” Unforgiveness is one of the leading causes of physical illness and is one of the things that has the greatest potential to stunt our spiritual growth. It literally stops us in our tracks from moving forward.
Is there someone you need to forgive but can’t seem to? Is there something you need forgiveness for, but you’re having a hard time forgiving yourself? It’s time to let go. Even if it’s only been a day, you’ve carried it far too long. Cut the cord that connects you and the offense and the offender once and for all. Instead, turn your attention from the one who hurt you to the One who heals you and ask for the grace and mercy to let go. Trust God with the rest.
“Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart.” -Corrie Ten Boom
Additional (optional) reading: Psalm 103:8-12; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Linda G Riddle 