Daily Gospel Reflection for September 18, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Luke 7:36-50

There is no disputing that the woman who washed Jesus’ feet with her tears, wiping them with her hair, was a great sinner. What had she done? We can only imagine, but her sins were well known to those gathered there. If we were in the room, what would we have thought if we saw such a woman approach Jesus, approach any one of us, in such an intimate manner? No doubt, most of us would react like the Pharisee. We would be horrified. How dare she? But Jesus welcomes her, sees her sorrow for her sins, and forgives her. 

The woman humbles herself and is exalted as a result. Jesus sees her heart and is touched by her demonstrative gesture. She, who was looked down on, is held up as an example. All these years later, we still hear her story. She is still a role model, not for her sins, but for the way she sought forgiveness. No matter what we have done in our own lives, we can turn to Jesus and beg for forgiveness. By the same token, we should encourage and welcome all who want a fresh start in life, free from sin.

We don’t have the power to forgive sins, but we do have the power to forgive those who have hurt us in some way. When our spouse has caused us pain through his words or deeds, do we forgive him, or do we keep a running tally of offenses and become determined to even the score? When our children have done something wrong and express their sorrow, how do we treat them? Do we forgive them with an open heart, or do we continue to point out their faults and failings? Let us be quick to both ask for and give forgiveness.

Ponder:

Whom do you need to forgive today?

Pray:

Dear Lord, I’m sorry for all my sins. Please forgive me and help me forgive others who have hurt me.

Copyright 2025 Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur