Forgiven Much, Love Much

Forgiven Much, Love Much

Reflection on Luke 7:36-50

In today’s Gospel from Luke 7:36-50, we hear the moving story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus’ feet with her tears and ointment while dining at the house of Simon the Pharisee. The contrast between Simon and the woman is striking. Simon, a respected religious leader, invited Jesus but showed Him little hospitality—no water for His feet, no kiss of greeting, no oil for His head. Meanwhile, this woman, who had a reputation as a sinner, offered Jesus everything she had—her tears, her hair, costly ointment, and most importantly, her heart full of love.

Simon judged her harshly, but Jesus saw deeper. He told Simon the parable of the two debtors: one who owed much, and another who owed little. Both were forgiven, but the one forgiven more loved more deeply. Jesus used this to teach that the woman’s great love was a sign of her great forgiveness. Her faith and humility opened her to God’s mercy.

This Gospel reminds us that no sin is too great for God’s forgiveness. Often, it is those who recognize how deeply they need mercy who experience the greatest joy and love. The Pharisee thought himself righteous and thus closed his heart to the depth of God’s mercy. The woman, on the other hand, knew her sinfulness and came to Jesus with total surrender. And Jesus, in His tenderness, affirmed her: “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Brothers and sisters, we are all in need of God’s mercy. Like the woman, we are called to approach Jesus not with pride but with humility and love. Our sins, though many, can never outweigh His mercy. When we experience His forgiveness, it should overflow into love—love for God and for others.

Key Takeaway: The more we recognize our need for God’s mercy, the more deeply we can love Him. Forgiven much, we too are called to love much.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Jesus, we thank You for the gift of Your mercy, which is greater than all our sins. Like the woman in today’s Gospel, may we approach You with humility, gratitude, and love. Help us to forgive others as You have forgiven us, and to live each day as witnesses of Your saving grace. May our lives proclaim: we are forgiven, and therefore, we love. Amen.