“Her many sins are forgiven—for she loved much” – Luke 7:47
A recovered addict returns to the church food pantry where she once stole from the donation box. Rather than being rejected, the cleaner and pastor watch as she unpacks bags of groceries—not only replacing what she took but filling three shelves. The pastor quietly says to the cleaner, “She’s not repaying a debt; she’s showing us what true gratitude looks like.”
Jesus reveals a surprising truth: it’s not that she is forgiven because she loved, but that her extravagant love shows she has been forgiven much (Luke 7:47). Her actions were not a way to earn grace but the overflowing evidence of grace already given—“Your sins are forgiven” (v. 48) comes before “Go in peace” (v. 50). This challenges two common errors: performance religion, which says we must earn mercy, and cheap grace, which offers forgiveness without true change. Genuine forgiveness sparks a love that transforms us deeply. Christ doesn’t judge your past sins but honours your present love. When you grasp this, your heart can respond freely, embracing His mercy and walking boldly in renewed faith. Christ honours your present love, not your past sins.
A Journey of Reflection and Action
- Journal about a time you felt God’s mercy wash over your past failures.
- Meditate on Luke 7:47, letting it remind you that love springs from forgiveness, not as a condition for it.
- Share your testimony of grace with someone who feels unworthy.
- Join a group discussion on the difference between cheap grace and true transformation in Christ.
Join Us in Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for forgiving me completely and loving me beyond my failures. Teach me to live in the freedom of grace and to express my gratitude through love and service. May my present life reflect the mercy You have given me. Amen.
Next Step on Your Journey
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Scripture Footnote & Further Reading
Scripture adapted from the Catholic Daily Reading for 18 Sept 2025.
- First Reading: 1 Timothy 4:12-16
- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 111:7-10
- Gospel: Luke 7:36-50
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