MERCY ENDURES FOREVER
In the Gospel today
Jesus sits down with a sinful woman who lives in the city. What is her sin? The
Gospel does not say. But her actions in washing the feet of Jesus cause Simon
to judge Jesus: "If this man were a
prophet, he would know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching
Him." But then Jesus says to Simon: "You gave me no water for my feet; you gave me no kiss; you did
not anoint my head." Then Jesus proclaimed that the woman's sins were
forgiven. There were forgiven because of her great love for Jesus.
Some challenging
questions to ponder on today: How quickly do we judge others? How often do we
fail to see our own failures in life? What are we impelled to do as we pray
daily, 'Forgive us as we forgive one
another"? Jesus forgave this woman because of her extravagant love. He
gave her his mercy, love and forgiveness.
Think about who is
in need of our love today rather than harsh judgment? Remember also whoever
gave us love and understanding when we deserved criticism?
Saint Peter Chrysologus
quoted in a reflection in the Magnificat wrote: God's hunger is for the groans
of delinquents, and His thirst is for tears of sinners... mercy endures
forever!
In the Responsorial
Psalm we acclaim: The works of His hands are faithful and just. The Lord is
reliable forever and ever. St. Peter went on to say about this.
The woman into
today scripture, mixed the drink with tears in proper measure, and to the full
delight of God she struck music from her heart and body.
God's mercy endures
forever!