Jan 22

The Pharisee in Luke7:36-50 had little to worry about from others for being near Jesus. At that point in Jesus' ministry, when he was still popular, it was an honor to be associated with him. Simon the Pharisee and Martha and Mary all stood to gain something socially from being in Jesus' presence.

Not so with this other woman, the jar-woman. Consider her situation: She has nothing to offer Jesus--no fancy home to visit, no good food, no pleasant conversation. Her very presence, in fact, would be an embarrassment to anyone as holy as he--right? All she can bring to this Jesus and the occasion is her sin and uncleanness amidst the cleanness of these people and their surroundings. All this she no doubt knew and was very much aware of--so much so that she began crying.

This woman knows who she is: a sinner who does not deserve to be in the presence of Jesus, much less that close to him--so close that she could reach out and touch him. She knows who she is.

But she also knows who he is: One who would welcome her no matter who she is. And so she cries.

If ever I could think that the Bible is simply made up, a collection of stories, a fiction, it would not be here. This is truth. This is reality. For I too know that I am a sinner. But from Scripture and also from personal experience with the God of Scripture, I know that he is love and that he welcomes me and forgives me. And I too have cried over his undeserved love and forgiveness.

The more we know the Lord, the more we know the greatness of his love.

Scripture for today: Luke7:36-50
Thought for today: Love knows no social boundaries.
Prayer for today: Thank you, Jesus, for socializing with me, for being my friend. I am not worthy of such friendship, but your own blood and sacrifice has made me into one who is capable of being a friend of God. Thank you.

JAN 22