The Web Log of Rev. Adrian Hanft, II

In Luke chapter 7 “tears, kisses and expensive perfume” were EVIDENCE of love displayed by someone who received God’s loving forgiveness. These overflowing acts of love went far beyond the “minimal gestures of hospitality” that a simple “Thank You” card might do in our day.

The woman identified in this Gospel lesson, as one who had lived a “sinful life”, was most likely a prostitute. It appears that she had heard Jesus preach and in repentance determined to lead a new life. Out of overflowing love and deep gratitude for the forgiveness of sins He had poured out upon her, she publicly expressed her thankfulness in ways clearly seen by all.

“Her love for Jesus was evidence of her forgiveness, but not the basis for it.” So says the footnote in my Bible.

Jesus did not think that her tears, kisses and perfume were odd. In fact, He defended her behavior by pointing out that those who have been “forgiven little love little”, while those who have been forgiven much express a much greater love for Him.

Loving God is not a contest to see who can love Him more! It is not a matter of outdoing one another in expressions of love to Jesus. But, there clearly is some observable "evidence".

Once we receive the assurance by faith that our sins have been forgiven, gestures of love for Jesus are as natural as breathing. With the woman in this Gospel lesson, we cannot stop “kissing the feet” of Jesus.

May the Lord make it so in your life and mine! Through the power of His Spirit may He lead us to repentance and deeper in love with Him. Amen!