Luke 7:39

New International Version

When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.”

For Encouragement

The woman yearned for forgiveness, so she went to the home of Simon the Pharisee where Jesus was dining. She knew the loving-kindness, mercy, and grace of the Master who had freed many from demonic possession and forgiven their sins—so why not her? 

Simon, however, had a different motive for hosting Jesus, possibly to ensnare Him or find fault to accuse Him. Otherwise, why withhold from Jesus the normal guest courtesies of the day like feet washing and head anointing (Lk. 7:44, 46)?

Despite her sordid reputation, she came, carrying an alabaster jar of perfume to honor the guest of the house. Overwhelmed by guilt and with a contrite heart, she soothed the Master’s feet with her warm teardrops that fell on them. Her hair, now a towel, and with kisses abounding, she poured her treasure of perfume on the Teacher’s feet (38). How could she contemplate its cost? Our Savior is worthier than everything we offer Him.

Simon doubted Jesus was the prophet people claimed he was or He should have known she was a notorious sinner—every man’s woman. A self-righteous Pharisee, Simon could not perceive her need for mercy and forgiveness. Jesus, however, did, and responded with admiration. 

“Your sins are forgiven… your faith has saved you; go in peace” (48, 50).

Her face was radiant with divine favor. She was free! Free as the aroma of her perfume that rose to fill the air. The stench of sin was gone, replaced by the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ that enveloped her.

“Presume what you may, Simon! My Lord understands my identity, purpose, and heavenly inheritance: eternal life. I am confident in my faith and my future.” 

Her precious gift did not save her. Grace did, through her faith in Christ Jesus (Eph. 2:8-9). She was at peace with God (Rom. 5:1), past condemnation (Rom. 8:1), while Simon roasted with disdain and self-righteousness.  

Have you experienced this freedom and peace from Jesus? Can you look forward to heaven with the confidence the woman had on her way home? Our merciful Savior awaits your confession of sin and appeal for forgiveness, and He will save you (Acts 2:38; Rom. 10:9-10, 13).

For you, the believer, rejoice and worship God in spirit and truth (Jn. 4:24). Give Jesus your all, for nothing is too much for His honor and glory. Amen!

Pray with Me

The world may not understand us, Father, but you know the cry of our hearts, the more profound yearning for your spring of living water. As you gave to the woman at the Sychar well and to this poor woman who poured her heart to you at Simon’s table, please have mercy on us and free us from all that binds us and into your freedom and eternal habitation. We plead according to your unfailing promises in Christ Jesus, your worthy Son, who has become our Savior and Lord, amen.

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