A Contrite Heart is His Delight

Psalm 51:17

New International Version

My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;
    a broken and contrite heart
    you, God, will not despise.

For Meditation 

She was notorious as a prostitute, the ‘sinful woman’ of Luke 7, whose story has echoed through the centuries. What some thought delight became a burden she carried with secrecy. Have you ever felt trapped in a job you disliked but couldn’t leave? Having heard much about Jesus, she longed to see and have Him free her from her burden of sin and find freedom.

Amid mounting anticipation, news of Christ dining at Simon’s house swept through the town in Galilee (Lk. 7:36-50). Simon, a Pharisee, did not extend a friendly invitation; rather, he sought to entrap Jesus or find cause to accuse Him. Yet, this notorious sinner entered his house and approached the Savior with finesse. With courage and determination, she sought forgiveness. She brought a flask of alabaster ointment, anointed Jesus’ feet, wept, and washed them with her tears, then wiped them with her hair. She kissed His feet and anointed them with oil (38). Such contrition—her weeping was a powerful sign of repentance. Simon sneered 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” (39).

Simon struggled to truly recognize his guest. If he had known more about the man he invited, the One who knows everything, even Simon’s thoughts at the moment, his response might have changed. However, despite Jesus being at his table, Simon’s perspective limited his understanding.

Sometimes, our pride keeps us from seeing Christ clearly in our lives. Education, popularity, status, influence, and money can distract us from what matters most, especially when the other person is Christ.

To illustrate, Jesus challenged Simon: Two debtors—one owed five hundred denarii, the other fifty—are both forgiven. Who is more grateful? “The one who owed more,” Simon replied, smirking.

You have answered well, Simon. Yet consider this: you judge this woman by her past, but do not reflect on your own need for forgiveness. As the host, you overlook hospitality, while this woman shows sincerity and deep repentance. She knows her need for forgiveness and seeks it from the right source. Sometimes we must look inward to see our own need for grace (44-47 paraphrased).

With the lesson understood, with authority and a command that marveled those at the table, Jesus said to the woman,

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

Sadly, many do not see their need for a savior. Time passes, and a feeling of spiritual security can hide a deeper longing for real peace.

If only more people would see themselves as the sinful woman did, and with contrite hearts seek forgiveness from the Savior that Simon didn’t recognize, they would be saved! She represents those Jesus came to save (1 Tim. 1:15). She is one of the sick who need a doctor (Lk. 5:31). Are you one of her type? The Lord is calling you. Do not delay.

Now, I invite you to reflect in silence or pray. Will you acknowledge your need, just as she did, and answer Jesus’ call? He is ready to forgive and receive you. Let us each bring our hearts before Him with sincerity.

For those Christ has already forgiven, daily forgiveness remains important. Our feet get dirty and need cleaning. Continue to reflect, repent, and seek His grace. Let us not judge others; we all need forgiveness (1 Jn. 1:8-10). Seek His grace daily. May the Lord be merciful to you.

Pray with Me

Father, forgive our pride towards others. We often think we are superior when we are not. Let your Spirit convict us, so that we repent at your throne of grace. Our sacrifice is a broken spirit; a contrite heart You will not despise. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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