"When a certain immoral woman from that city
heard he was eating there, she brought
beautiful jar filled with expensive perfume."
Luke 7:37
heard he was eating there, she brought
beautiful jar filled with expensive perfume."
Luke 7:37
My Take Aways
Something Old:
When was the last time I thanked God for forgiving my many sins? When was the last time I did something for the Lord and did not care what others thought?
This was a woman who was identified by her character but remembered for her actions.
This was a woman who was identified by her character but remembered for her actions.
Something New:
I want a faith that amazes God.
I want to do something that advances the Kingdom of God.
Something to Do:
Empty my "alabaster box" at the feet of the Jesus.
16 Comments:
Dear Wendy,
Thank you for your awesome post today and for the beautiful performance of Cece Winan. It brought tears to my eyes!
I wanted to say your opening words on the readings from this weekend and loving your enemy really struck home with me. Over the past half-year, I have felt God really working on this area of my life. "Enemy" seems like a harsh word in my circumstances. I have a hard time calling people my enemy, but there are some situations at work where there is a lot of competitiveness and insecurity of others that is directed at me. Daily I find myself praying that I see others as Jesus sees them; that I understand their situation and show empathy and compassion for it and for them. I pray that God would hold my tongue so I do not say hurtful things or react out of my pride. I have just this past week (coinciding with the start of the New Testament in our reading schedule)begun consciously adding specific individuals to my prayers. They are these same people for whom I appear to be a thorn... I am far away from being capable to deal. If I miss a morning's prayer, the day does not go well.
I know I have shared with you all my struggles with being in Switzerland as far as understanding my purpose here, and how to continue to grow in my faith. I consider this group and these daily reading a cornerstone to my purpose here. I am also beginning to think I am here to develop a servant's heart and to know what it means to love my neighbor.
I also want to have the faith of the centurion and in addition, his humble heart. He knew he was a Gentile and he did not think it fit for Jesus to enter his house (he was concerned for Jesus and the deference that should be shown to Him). He simply stated, I know you can command it to be and it will be... Authority is here again illustrated, as with the people who heard Jesus preach. He speaks with such authority; the people had never heard speaking like this from the religious leaders.
And Jesus marveled at the man's faith. In David Guzik's commentary I find this statement:
"We see that Jesus only marveled on a few occasions. He does so here, at the faith of the centurion, and also at the unbelief of His own people (Mark 6:6). Jesus can be amazed at either our faith or our unbelief."
So, I too want to have faith that causes Jesus to marvel, I don't want to have unbelief that causes His amazement! Dear Jesus, I do believe! Please help me overcome my unbelief! (Mark 9:24)
Happy Monday!
Karen, Basel
Hi,
It's me again, just popping in after reading Rachel's blog today on P31... It was written for me! Here is her focus verse:
Hebrews 12:14-15, "Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." (NIV)
And that fits perfectly with the "love your neighbor" theme from above. Just wanted to share... :)
Karen
Wendy, just want to encourage you, and all of us with Jeremiah 15:16a...When your words came I ate them; they were my joy and heart's delight.
Thanks for the song, you just can't hear that and not raise hands in gratitude.
Blessings,
Valerie, KY
Karen, I liked that part, too! Jesus being amazed - a neat mental picture. I definitely want to amaze Him FOR my faith and not because of a LACK of it!
Short on time - gotta go get kids ready for school - but I'm sure looking forward to reading everyone's thoughts! Happy Monday!
Happy Monday all!
Something Old: Luke 7:13: "When the Lord saw her, his heart overflowed with compassion" What wonderful words to read. What a comfort it is to know that when my heart hurts, so does my Jesus' heart. He doesn't leave us to mourn and suffer on our own. He is right there with us, feeling what we feel.
Something New: Luke 7:35: "But WISDOM is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it." We have learned that THE FEAR OF GOD is the beginning of all wisdom. So truly fearing God will show others around us to be the right way to live.
Nugget: I too will use Wendy's nugget...having Jesus be amazed at my faith...stepping out and not caring what others think of my love for Jesus.
Praise Him!
Morgen
Good morning GIGS,
Dixie, may the Lord protect you in your travels, grant you a peaceful mind, and provide you a blessed reunion with Lt. Laurie and Brett that fills you to overflowing, in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
My nugget for today: (Matthew 11:27 No one truly know the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the son AND THOSE (caps mine) to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him, I am so grateful that He has steadfastly pursued me for the purpose of revealing who He is and who He wants me to be. Every day He reveals new truths that bring joy to my heart. Yesterday I had another wonderful experience in my new church home, and the sermon spoke to be about some heavy burdens I am carrying. Then today's reading included the lovely verse Come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. When we stay in close relationship with Him, He supplies us with just what we need!!
Have a blessed, 4:8 day, all!
Peace and Gratitude,
Michelle in New England
Wendy, thank you for your authenticity and transparency. Praying for you today.
Amazing faith. Amazing moments. Did you know Jesus only had two of them recorded in Scripture? One was concerning lack of faith (Mark 6:6), and the other reflecting on great faith.
Can you even imagine Jesus being amazed? After all, what would be that marvellous to Him? He’s God! What would be so wonderfully unexpected that He would be amazed? It was a man with great faith.
Makes me stop and ponder. Would He be amazed at my faith? I want to share something I learned last year as I read through this passage.
What would it take to having amazing faith? In looking at this event recorded in Matthew 8:5-13, first we see the centurion’s crisis of faith. A young servant lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain (vs.6). Disease is presenting a difficulty and possibly death. The circumstance appears critical and the Roman officer is at a turning point, and he knows exactly where to turn.
After acknowledging his crisis of faith, we see his confident faith. He believed with just a word, Jesus could heal his servant. With conviction and confession he shares his assurance in the abilities of the Savoir.
We also see a confirmed faith, as verse 13 tells us, “And the young servant was healed that same hour.” God’s word attests to the miracle.
This man who amazed Christ knew that God is a God of distance. Distance never limit’s God. He can just think a thought or breathe a word and something happens. He understands God’s divine authority. He is Sovereign God over nature, disease, demons, death and destiny. Time and space do not constrain the Lord. This Roman officer had a faith that embraced God entirely. We see in verse 6 that this man demonstrated the true characteristics of a disciple by calling Christ, “Lord”. This officer who was accustomed to giving commands, and was no stranger to commitment and courage, was filled with compassion for his servant.
As I read this passage over, not only was the centurion’s faith amazing, his love was amazing, his mercy was amazing, and his humility was amazing.
I long to be one who amazes Jesus. Lord, only You can give to me that amazing faith, but my heart must be willing. As You spoke in Capernaum you exclaimed, “I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!” As you look over Canada, the United States and other parts of the world, Your eyes go to and fro looking for those who are completely Yours. (2 Chronc.16:9) Would Your eyes rest on me? Would I cause Your heart to be amazed because of my amazing love, amazing mercy, amazing humility and amazing faith? Father, my heart knows the answer. I surrender to Your changing work in me.
I have a huge decision to make today and it is time senstive. I need an answer by 11:30 this morning. I sure would appreciate your prayers. It is weighing very heavy on my heart since being brought to my attention around suppertime last evening. "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest..." Matthew 11:28-30
Trusting for divine direction,
Joy
Wendy, I was drawn today to the same section you taught on. It never ceases to amaze me how God will use our daily reading to coincide with a real-life situation that we are walking in. We see Jesus healing the sick (7:1-10), bringing people back to life (7:11-18) & forgiving with no conditions attached. We may not be able to heal with our touch, or bring a dead person back to life, but, sisters, surely we must be forgiving if we are going to call ourselves Christ followers.
“[Lori’s] sins – and they are many – have been forgiven” (Luke 7:47). Just as the Lord forgives us daily, we need to be forgiving to those around us. I thought about a verse today that we just read yesterday: “And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own?” (Luke 6:41).
I had a slightly (putting it rather nicely) negative attitude toward a particular girl-friend of my 16 year old. She’s a beautiful, straight student, what’ not to like? Well, she has been very aloof to me, down right stand-offish, not to mention, she does not have a faith. And, of course my thoughts have been working over-time, obsessing about all of the what-if’s. A couple of weeks ago, the Spirit faintly began speaking –and then, throughout the week– a bit louder, guiding me to begin praying for her. My heart is slowing changing towards her. It’s only when we cling to God, that we can love those that are not ones we’ve chosen to love. I do not have space to share, but, this turn-around within me, (PTL) has even changed my whole relationship with my son, for the better. I don’t’ know all of the why’s but, I do believe, ‘that for a time as this,’ this girl has been put on my plate to pray over, to boldly pray, as I do for my own children. If I did not read last year, that we are suppose to pray for our enemies, I’d never have known we are called to do this.
God continues to forgive me daily for my sins, and yes, they are many! Who am I, to think that I could hold a negative opinion regarding this young girl? I do not know the ins/outs of her background, or why she acts as she does. I’m not to judge her; but, to love her. Oh, that I will have a compassionate heart to love on everyone, not just those I’ve chosen to love!
By the way, guess who I am making my first project (scarf) for? Only God could do this in me dear friends.
Girls’ have a blessed day seeking to be smack dab next to the Lord! It’s our only hope dear loved ones! Lori
PS off to walk and pray, Joy, I just read your request, and will be lifting you up, my sweet friend!
Keeping my/our eyes open on a Monday Everybody,
Thanks You…..Always Wendy!!
Commentary from Workbook for Lectors
Luke 7:36-8:3...
In this Gospel, Jesus reads both a mind and a heart. The mind belongs to Simon, a proud Pharisee who thinks he knows the heart of the woman who wipes the feet of Jesus with her tears. Simon, in fact, marvels that Jesus himself can’t see this woman for who she obviously is. But Jesus has read the heart of the woman much better than the presumptuous Simon. So Jesus offers Simon and his guest a parable that bears directly on the scene unfolding before Simon’s own table. Of two debtors forgiven different amounts, he asks, who will love the creditor more? The one forgiven more, says Simon.
Now Jesus sets the spotlight on the woman, noting how she, a sinner and an outcast, has shown him all the expected gestures of hospitality that Simon failed to provide. Her many sins have been forgiven and in response, she shows Jesus such great love. Note that the sequence is different from what we might expect: She does not show great love first and then as a result receive forgiveness. Like the debtors of Jesus’ parable, she is forgiven, and then she shows great love. Jesus has not only seen her “many sins,” he has already forgiven them and the woman can’t help but weep and perfume his feet in gratitude. Jesus’ point is that those forgiven much will love much and those forgiven little will love but little. That’s not an invitation to sin mightily, but to realize that no matter what our sins or state of life, we all have been forgiven much!
After publicly announcing that the woman’s sins are forgiven and leaving controversy in his wake, Jesus sets out with the disciples and several women, including Magdalene, who, despite being misrepresented since the fifth century as a prostitute, is nonetheless one of several from whom Jesus drove out evil spirits. This Gospel focuses on the love and gratitude that result from having our debts cancelled and sins forgiven, and one does not need to be cured of evil spirits to understand that great joy.
A side note: The words “you did not give me water…” indicate that there is still hope that Simon’s eyes might open. Jesus won’t make his host defensive. Regret rather than admonishment colors the “little is forgiven” statement.
Pondering much today….I am a Simon Lord …Always remind me when I “do not give you water.” I always want hope….Keep my eyes open.
His Passionate Care,
Rhonda
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Wendy~ I felt I needed to stop by your blog today, I am very thankful I did. Thank you for your own authenticity. I needed to hear this today. At times, I struggle with this too.
My daughter had a friend over this weekend so she could take her to church. This girl is someone, that we would not normally let come over because the way she bullies my daughter somtimes.
I wanted to be the "shining star for Jesus".. All things went well yesterday and she said she liked going to our church. Later that afternoon I was having a hard time loving her because the bulliness started coming out. Before taking the girls back to Sunday night youth group I had to confront this young girl about taking some of my daughters things. This is where I lost my "trying to shine for Him" I was just plain tired and upset that this took place. She then texted my phone while in the car, some things about my girl. She said it was not intended for me but for someone else.
I prayed for her last night, however this is a reminder that I need to keep doing so. It is a reminder that we are going to be tested in these areas.
It is my prayer to have a faith that amazes God. I want to do something that advances the Kingdom of God.
This girl goes to school with my daughter and they play sports together so I pray things are going smooth at Jr. High today.
I would love to join you all on your daily readings.
Blessings and Hugs
Thank you Wendy for all that you share to show us your humanity and your beautiful heart. We are all challenged on different levels, and we feel supported and encouraged by the knowledge that we are all in this together, engaging in struggles of one kind or another. Prayers continue for you and your family.
Thank you friends for the daily posts that you share-- you are all so special and valuable in my journey.
Karen, G&P, Rhonda, your words and research are such enrichment to me. Joyful, Amy and Michelle, your insights are so visual and strong, they are really powerful. Cheerleader Lori, you make me smile with your energy in the Spirit! Morgan, I had to dwell awhile on your legalism idea, it helped to name it and claim it. Jodie from Ottawa, just know you are an inspiration to me. I am praying for your health, and an answer. Susan, great idea to read aloud-- I should try reading to Chip and it can be a win-win! Kristin in TX- good to get a positive update on Rebecca—what a road of ups and downs, but God is always in the driver’s seat. Wonderful news about your job and your new home! God’s faithfulness is there for you to witness!
Dear Anonymous, thank you for commenting, and I will pray for you and your husband, for the hand of God to guide your decisions. I have a special area in my daily prayerwork that includes our Anonymous Friends. Welcome Stacy, and thank you for your great comments about the Christian walk. It can be lonely sometimes when others don’t yet understand our spirit, but surrounding ourselves with friends in the Lord helps us to stay stronger, so this is a great place to be! Beautiful Daughters, thank you for sharing, I will pray for the outcome that God intends.
Dixie, yes I feel your pain as my eyes fill with tears for you. May your time with your daughter Laurie be rich and full of memories to hold you over and sustain you when you are tempted with fear. She will miss seeing her mom too. Have a safe journey and time with your children—we will look forward to your return!
As I pick up one of my mats, there is always another underneath, like the princess and the pea, layer after layer. Uncomfortable, but still I lie on whatever is there. The treasure lies below, freedom from sin that binds. Today I have to go to work and face a co-worker that is difficult. I do not look forward to the tension, but my always trying to “break the ice” gets old. I go with a new spirit each Monday, but come home discouraged. Lord, show me the way.
The story of the certain woman had me thinking about her hair. As you said Wendy, a woman’s hair was kept covered and private, not something to be shared with any other man but her intended. Was this a figurative public demonstration by the woman that from that moment on she was espousing herself to Jesus? What do I keep private and covered, that I should begin to devote entirely to Him in my life?
Thank you all, have a great week.
Blessing s and continued prayers,
Jacque
Hi ladies,
The Lord continues to shout out to me through this study. I just love the story of the centurion. I want that level of faith - to really believe that God's Word has the power to transform our lives no matter the distance, time or circumstances if we just believe. I love that we celebrate this story during mass every week "Lord - I am not worthy to receive You but only say the word and I shall be healed." BELIEVE, BELIEVE, BELIEVE. I hear it echoed all over the place these days. Thank you Lord!
Also - laying our burdens before the Lord and He will give us rest. Another verse I have now seen about 4 times in the past few days in different settings. Godincidence for sure :)
Jacque - you have such a tender heart for people, thank you for your thoughtfulness and caring concern. I am not too sure about how inspiring my life is these days - I have so much to change. God help me! But, I am always grateful for your prayers friend!
Lifting up all your prayer requests right now.
Jodie from Ottawa
Just wanted to come back and say the decision I needed to make has been made...not an easy one...and many tears...but I believe the right one. Although sad, there is a peace that has surrounded my heart. Thank you for your prayers.
Trusting,
Joy
Joy, you are in my prayers, sweet friend!God will work this out to His glory.
GIGs and Wendy, this vlog was great as were the comments. Wendy, I thought that I was the only one whose feet fell asleep when I tucked them under me to pray!!!!
Y'all, I learn so much from your research and your thoughts. I appreciate you all and love you! I too want the faith of the centurion and need to remember to thank God for His forgiveness of my sins.
Hugs!
Susan
Thanks,Wendy, for your wonderful post today! Thanks for sharing the video of Cece Winnan's Alabaster box! It's one of my favorite songs. God richly bless you!
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