Jan 30

There can be many reasons for us to cry in life. Who knows all the reasons why the jar-woman cried at the feet of Jesus? Perhaps, in addition to the possible reasons mentioned previously, there was also the fact that she knew that she did not have the fullness of life and love that every human being desires. This is universal human desire -- and she was certainly human.

Also, perhaps there was the issue of Jesus coming to the house of Simon and not her own house. That leads to a second statement of Jesus to Simon:

Fact #2: "I came into your house" (Luke 7:44).

Yes, Jesus did come into the house of a socially-accepted person and not the house of a known sinner. But that is no endorsement of Simon and no ostracization of the woman. Scripture admonishes us not to give preferential treatment to the rich; but neither are we to excuse the poor from living according to God's requirements.

Whatever the reason, we can be sure that Jesus did the best thing for both of them--and for us. For everything he did, and everything recorded in Scripture, was done not just for the ones present at that particular moment but for the benefit of people of all ages and times.

Look again at Simon. Many would no doubt say that he really served Jesus by throwing that party at his house. But let us ask ourselves the question, Who did most of the work? Was it Simon himself or the servants of that rich man? And now let us ask another question: Does God want something from you that has been done by others--or does he want you yourself?

Simon may have given to Jesus, but it was out of his wealth, possibly costing him little.

What has your service to Jesus cost you?

Scripture for today: 2 Samuel 24:18-24
Thought for today: God is worthy of my costliest gifts.
Prayer for today: I give you my soul, Lord, the most costly gift I have to offer you.

JAN 30