Love that Sees

Luke 7:36-50

Introduction:

• Good morning! Today we turn our hearts to a passage that illuminates the extraordinary power of love and forgiveness, the story in Luke 7:36-50. Here, we witness a profound encounter in the home of Simon the Pharisee, where Jesus, the Son of God, is dining and teaching. Into this scene steps a woman known by society as a sinner, yet she approaches Jesus with courage, humility, and a heart overflowing with love.
• The narrative challenges us to ask: What motivates genuine love? Is it social standing, perfection, or recognition? In this account, we see two responses to Jesus.
• Simon’s measured, cautious respect. The Woman’s lavish, selfless devotion. The woman’s love is not simply emotional; it is visible, tangible, and sacrificial. She washes his feet with her tears, wipes them with her hair, kisses them, and anoints them with costly perfume. In contrast Simon offers the formalities expected of a host yet fails to demonstrate the depth of hospitality or acknowledgment of Christ’s presence.
• Jesus uses this moment to teach a timeless lesson: “I tell you, her sins-and they are many-have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” The forgiveness offered by Jesus is transformative. It awakens the heart to a love that sees beyond social labels and past transgressions; it inspires gratitude expressed in acts of humility and devotion.
• Today, as we explore “Love that Sees,” we will examine the contrast between shallow formalities and heartfelt devotion, the humility required to love as God loves, and the way true awareness of our forgiveness fuels extravagant love.
• Let us open our hearts to this passage, to see not only the woman weeping at His feet but also ourselves invited to respond to the forgiveness and love that Jesus offers to each of us. May the Spirit guide us as we discern how to embody this love that truly sees.