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.” Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.”
Luke 7:39-40 ESV
In this story, we find that a Pharisee has invited Jesus to his home to share a meal. I’m unsure of the motive behind this, as Pharisees often attempted to trick and trip up Jesus; however, an invitation was extended, and Jesus accepted.
While there, a local woman learned this gathering was happening and invited herself, along with a gift: an expensive alabaster jar of perfume. Many of us know the story, as Mary –
“stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.” (Luke 7:38)
The Pharisee who invited Jesus to his home began to think 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.” (Luke 7:39)
Jesus, knowing the thoughts of the Pharisee, turns to him and asks him a rather random question.
“Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” (Luke 7:41-42)
Reading further on, we see that Simon is publicly corrected for not giving Jesus any water for His feet, not giving Him a kiss in greeting, and not putting oil on His head.
You see, in ancient Near Eastern culture, offering water to your guest was customary. This act signified hospitality and respect as the roads were dusty and washing feet upon arrival was a necessity. The woman’s tears reflected deep repentance and devotion, and they showed genuine humility. A kiss upon greeting was a common form of greeting, which was also a sign of hospitality and respect. Anointing the head of a guest with was customary as a sign of welcome and blessing.
Simon was self-righteous, Mary was humble. Simon thought he had his priorities in order, but ultimately he failed to recognize his own need for forgiveness, grace, and mercy.
Psalms 51:17 reads,
“The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.”
There is something wildly profound in humbling yourself before God. Today, no greater sacrifice can be given to God other than your whole heart. He works miracles in moments of humility.
Devotion by Caitlin Walker
