October 25, 2022 -- Luke 7:36-44 -- Forgiven Much

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee's house and reclined at table. 37 And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was reclining at table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, 38 and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.” 40 And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “Say it, Teacher.”

41 “A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered, “The one, I suppose, for whom he cancelled the larger debt.” And he said to him, “You have judged rightly.” 44 Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” 48 And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” 50 And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Luke 7:36-44 ESV

When I was young, I remember there were a lot of sermons given by many preachers which focused on the sinfulness of those who were in the gathered congregation. It used to surprise me a bit. I mean, here we are, the forgiven people of God, why spend so much time talking about and preaching about our sins? This passage answers that question. When I know, when I truly realize the depths of my sinfulness, then I will begin to grasp the greatness of Jesus Christ and the rich forgiveness He has poured out on my life.

As one who is forgiven, there is no greater joy than serving Jesus. In view of His perfect love there is no greater blessing than bringing to Him any gift or sacrifice. Knowing the Father in heaven has sent Jesus, it is fellowship divine to encourage, help and bless any people whom He has placed in my path so that the fragrance of Christ’s love will be given to any and all.

Have you been forgiven much?

Blessed Father in heaven, thank You for the rich forgiveness You have poured out in Jesus Christ. Faithful Father, thank You that You lead and guide Your people by the Holy Spirit, Who was poured out at Pentecost and Who is given to all those whom You have brought close to Yourself. Triune God, move Your people to truly live for You, whole-hearted, completely and in fullness of joy. Amen.

https://youtu.be/MnTgleMFK14

Copyright © 2022 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.