Read: Luke 7:36–50
This woman didn’t belong at that dinner. Everyone knew it. She wasn’t invited, and she definitely wasn’t wanted. Her past was public, and she had a reputation that preceded her and followed her around. So when she knelt at Jesus’ feet, weeping and pouring perfume, the room went quiet with judgment.
The host thought to himself, “If this man were really a prophet, he’d know what kind of woman this is.” But here’s the irony: Jesus did know exactly who she was. In fact, he knew her better than anyone in the room.
Once someone messes up, we tend to step back and keep them at a distance. We let their single worst moment overtake their entire story. A lot of the time, this stems from a natural self-preservation instinct. But that’s not how Jesus operates.
When Jesus looked at this woman, he didn’t see a scandal. He didn’t focus on what she had done. He focused on who she was, and she was doing now: displaying love for him, repenting for her past, and surrendering her future to him. While others saw her bad reputation, Jesus saw her heart.
The host, meanwhile—the most righteous person in the room—hadn’t shown any affection toward Jesus. No hospitality. No warmth. The woman, on the other hand, poured out everything she had, literally and figuratively. Jesus noticed this and pointed it out for everyone in attendance. He pointed out that the woman, not the religious leader, was the one who truly understood what grace meant.
If you’ve ever been judged by your worst decisions, know this: Jesus sees beyond all of it. He knows your heart longs for healing, and he’s ready and waiting to provide it.
And if you're quick to write someone off, slow down. You might be missing what Jesus sees, or missing the opportunity to extend grace to others just like he did. Today, choose to see people the way Jesus does. Let him check your heart, too.