A Woman of the City
“And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was reclining at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears”
Luke 7:37-38a ESV
We don’t know what happened for this woman prior to her entering Simon’s house, or how she learned that Jesus was there. We only know that when she learned where Jesus was, she went to be with Him.
She must have at least heard Jesus’ teaching and understood that God would accept her, heal her, and forgive her. Perhaps she had a conversation with Jesus, or one of His followers, like Mary Magdalene who could’ve shared her own story of redemption and restoration. We do know this woman jumped at the chance to have a new start, a new life, and a new heart. Why else would she be there worshipping Jesus?
She cried so many tears the dust and dirt were washed off Jesus’ feet.
Stop and think about that!
Dirt roads + open sandals = dusty, very dirty feet
Tears are rather small. How many would it take to clean Jesus’ feet? More than a decorous few.
She would need to cry for quite a while, tears streaming down her face and onto Jesus. I imagine her sobs growing louder, the tears pouring off her. It was likely awkward or annoying to those around the table.
Why, exactly, is she weeping? We are not told. Possibilities include being:
Overcome with God’s presence
Sorrowful over the consequences of her sin, in her heart and life, in the hearts and lives of those she loves
Grateful that Jesus treats her differently than others
Amazed at God’s grace for her
Seen and known and loved by Jesus
Overwhelmed for healing of wounds and years of abuse
Finally aware of how much God loves her
She may have felt invisible, unimportant, or even unworthy as she attempted to express her love and gratitude to Jesus. She just kept crying. She was apparently ignored by everyone, no one stopped her or said anything.
Whatever happened before this scene it gave her immense courage to do what she did. She came with a heart so full of love for Jesus it triumphed over the rejection, condemnation, and diminishment she felt from other rabbis and religious leaders.
Do you have a holiday gathering or a meal to go to this season where you might feel unwelcome or judged by others?
Remember that you are forgiven. Focus on Jesus and what He has done for you, how He has set you free, healed you, restored you, and continues to work in your heart and life. Freely express your love and worship Jesus, regardless of whether or not others will understand.
We are all sinners.
Our sins are many.
Jesus has made a way for us to be forgiven.
Consider:
How has being at peace with God, being certain of His acceptance, given you courage to face condemnation from people?
Remember:
“Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from satan’s power when we were gone astray.
Oh tidings of comfort and joy”
From God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
When you hear these lyrics, be reminded of your many reasons for loving Jesus, and express your joy to Him.
Share:
What work of Christ are you most grateful for this Christmas season?
