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June 17, 2007 - 3rd Sunday after Pentecost
One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with him, and he went into
the Pharisee's house and took his place at the table. And a woman in the
city, who was a sinner. brought an alabaster jar of ointment. She stood
behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears
and to dry them with her hair. Then she continued kissing his feet and
anointing them with the ointment.
-- Luke 7:36-38
How soothing it must have been for Jesus to receive the tears and ointment
of the sinful woman on his dusty feet. Bathing his feet with her tears she
shared her joy and love with the one who would heal her with forgiveness.
Forgiveness is like that. The ache that we feel in our guilt and hatred
eats away at our soul, but forgiveness is like a balm that soothes and heals.
For what do you need forgiveness? Is there someone you could heal with
forgiveness, either your own or bring healing by sharing the good news of
Christ's forgiveness for them?
We pray: God, throughout the ages you judge your people with mercy,
and you inspire us to speak your truth. By your Spirit, anoint us for lives
of faith and service, and bring all people into your forgiveness, through
Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen
Lessons for the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost:
- Psalm 32
- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:10, 13-15
- Galatians 2:15-21
- Luke 7:36--8:3
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible,
copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the
National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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