Today we return to the cycle of Ordinary Time readings. For the next two months or so the readings focus on discipleship. The readings from the Old Testament emphasize the responsibilities of those called to follow God. For the next few weeks we will hear a continuous reading of Paul’s letter to the Galatians, in which Paul declares the importance of faith in Christ over observance of the law. Following Galatians we hear from Colossians in which Paul develops his understanding of our discipleship in terms of our sharing in the life of Christ. Luke’s gospel examines discipleship in light of Jesus’ public ministry. These readings help us to gain insights into what it means to be a disciple of the Lord.
Today’s first reading from 2 Samuel tells us that not even King David was above the law. He committed a grave sin by lusting after another man’s wife. Then he plunged deeper into sin by acting on his impulses. Finally his sexual indiscretion leads him to commit murder. Because he recognized his sinfulness, God was willing to forgive David, but the punishment fit the crime. The sword would never pass from the house of David. David only came to terms with his sin when it was pointed out to him by the prophet Nathan. God is willing to forgive but we must have the humility to recognize our sin and ask for his forgiveness.
In today’s gospel we meet another sinner. A woman approaches Jesus at the house of Simon the Pharisee. While Jesus is reclining at table she washes his feet with her tears, dries them with her hair, and anoints them with ointment. For Simon this proves that Jesus is not a prophet, otherwise he would not let a sinner like that women touch him. Jesus uses the parable to instruct Simon and all of us on the relationship of love to forgiveness.
Paul teaches that forgiveness comes through Jesus and not the law. While we live in the flesh we are easily overwhelmed by evil. Paul urges us to live by faith in Christ and the power of Christ’s life in us will enable us to live for God.
As disciples we must recognize that even the greatest among us are also sinners. We should not be afraid to ask for forgiveness. We know that we have an advocate with the Father, Christ who pleads for us. The sacrament of Reconciliation makes Christ’s healing and forgiveness just as present to us as it was for the repentant women in the gospel. To be forgiven is to be loved! The best response to that kind of love is to go out and do the same. A disciple is a witness of God’s forgiveness and an ambassador of Christ’s love.