Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, open my ears to hear what you have to say to me; open my heart to love your word, and open my mind to understand your truth.
The story of Jesus' encounter at Simon's house is very moving, and very challenging. A meal for guests at that time, perhaps held in an open courtyard, would have been more accessible to uninvited strangers than it would be for us today. Among those watching the show out of curiosity about Jesus was a woman who 'lived a sinful life' (verse 37). Her embarrassing emotionalism is contrasted favourably with Simon's chilly judgementalism: Jesus tells him that 'whoever has been forgiven little shows only a little love' (verse 47).
It's an irony we see again and again in the Gospels that the 'good' people like Simon are blind to their own faults, while the scarlet sinners like this woman are only too aware of their need of a saviour. And she, not Simon, is the one who loves more; the greater need calls out the deeper response.
Jesus' parable (verses 41–42) is aimed at Simon: he is trying to show him that in spite of his virtuous life, this woman is closer to God than he is. Again, we should ask where we are in the story. Some of us might feel we're represented by the woman. Most good church-going Christians are probably nearer the character of Simon. This is a very rich story, but perhaps among other things Jesus is saying that while right conduct is good, a warm and thankful heart is better; and that 'good' people should be willing to learn from repentant sinners rather than judging them.
God, open my eyes to see my own faults, and close them to the faults of others; and open my heart, to make me thankful for your grace to me.
This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor
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