Jesus at the home of Simon the Pharisee Luke 7:36- 50
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
(The woman tells her story)
I knew Simon the Pharisee. He is a good man. Even though he knows of my past life, he allows me to collect what is left over so that I can feed myself and my child.
Today, however, I was very distressed. The man who has been the talk of the town because of his words and actions had been invited to dinner. ‘How wonderful,’ I thought. Our leaders are beginning to recognise that this man Jesus is worth listening to. His words seem to come from God, because they are confirmed by the miracles that are worked in God’s name.’
I was near the entrance when Jesus approached. ‘Come in!’ said one of the servants. You can take a seat at the second table.’ Jesus graciously nodded and reclined at the table. No washing of feet! No kiss of welcome! No anointing with oil! I was horrified! Is this the way to welcome a guest – and such a Guest?
I left the hall, hardly concealing my anger at this outrage. At home, I snatched up the jar of ointment which I had planned to sell in the market and ran back to Simon’s house. After I entered the house, it was easy to find a place at Jesus’ feet. This was not the important table. My emotions spilled over, and I sobbed in rage and sorrow as I bent over the feet of Jesus. My tears fell on his feet. Oh, no! What have I done now? I tried drying them with my hair, always my crowning glory. Under my fingers, I could feel that one toe was cut. I bent down and kissed it, just as my mother used to do, ‘to make it better.’ Jesus touched my arm. ‘Thank you! You remind me of my mother.’ I opened my jar, pouring the healing oil over those toil-worn feet.
All of this had not gone unnoticed. Simon and some of the other leaders were arguing about what was happening at the second table. Jesus called out. ‘Simon, I have something to say to you.’ ‘Speak, Sir!’ said Simon, pleased that he was invited into a discussion with this famous person. Jesus proposed a scenario about two men who owed a moneylender. One owed a large sum, the other, a small amount. As neither was able to repay, the moneylender wiped both debts. Jesus asked Simon who would be more grateful. Of course, Simon chose the one with the bigger debt. Jesus continued. ‘You are right, of course. And so, see how this applies here. This woman’s sins have been forgiven, and so she did for me what you did not do. She has washed my feet and dried them, she has kissed my feet and anointed them with oil. She has turned from her evil ways.’
Then to my utter joy and relief, Jesus said to me, ‘your sins are forgiven.’
I feel such joy and freedom now. I go to listen to Jesus whenever I can, and he always comes and says hello.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· How do I welcome people?
· Do I treat some people differently according to their status?
· Anger can be turned to good. It can provide the energy needed to respond to injustice. How can I use my anger for the good of others?
· Am I prepared to support others when they are being unjustly criticised?
· How do I react when I am ignored or treated poorly?
Prayer
Lord, help me to give all people the respect that is their right. Guide me in my judgements and decision-making. Help me to be open to your message of love and compassion. Amen.