Pharisee’s house

Pharisee’s house
Luke 7:36-50

The woman recognized the Pharisee’s house as she turned the corner—she had never been welcome there.

She tucked her hand firmly around the alabaster jar, almost in reassurance that she still had the courage and faith to meet him there.

Entering, she immediately knelt behind Jesus, who was seated at the table.

She could no longer hold it together—the anticipation and excitement of being in his presence was broken by the truth. The truth was pain, healing and overwhelming love—the tears flowed.

As tears ran onto Jesus’ feet she gently moved her head, back and forth, allowing her hair to dry them. She kissed his feet, and rubbed the ointment into his skin.

She felt separated from the high tension in the room. Then, he spoke.

Amazed that Jesus stood up for her in the Pharisee’s house, she heard him say, “Your sins are forgiven.”

She represents the experience and reality of many women, invisible in society and known for their sins.

But she, like us, can hear God’s truth in Jesus’ words of forgiveness.

Fran Wallace, Burlington.