Authentic

April 26, 2025 | Read and Think About Luke 7:36-50

This story shows exactly what John the Baptist meant when he called a people to repent and prepare their hearts for the Lord's coming.

The home Jesus visited was a fine home, the home of a Pharisee.  They were having a dinner.   Just a regular night, until …

This woman was a prostitute!  The night turned on a dime.  We read all these verbs that describe her actions there:

• She learned (that Jesus was there)…

• She came (to the home) …

• She brought (something of great value to her) …

• She stood (behind Jesus) …

• She wept (because she was sorry) …

• She wet (Jesus’ feet with her tears) …

• She wiped, she kissed, she poured (these three at the feet of Jesus) …

The perfume she poured out was her stock in trade.  The word “poured” – it has a permanent feel to it.  You cannot put poured perfume back in the jar.  It was gone, and the change was permanent, authentic.

I wonder if the woman had gone out to John the Baptist. Maybe she didn't feel worthy. But she was worthy, and now, clearly, she was prepared for the coming of the Lord! The path suddenly was straight. Whether she had gone out to the wilderness like so many others had or not, I think the lasting influence of John the Baptist was on display here. He was a change agent.

The story is brief, but what a powerful picture the woman presents.  And consider closely what Jesus said to the woman:

“Your sins are forgiven.  Your faith has saved you.  Go in peace.”

There is no greater assurance.  Jesus wants every person to have it, and He alone has provided the way.