As we resume “ordinary” time and our sequential reading of the Gospel of Luke, we are presented with a scene of great power and tenderness. A “sinful woman” enters a stranger’s house, anoints Jesus’ feet with perfume, washes them with her tears, dries them with her hair, and experiences Jesus’ forgiveness and compassion. We do not know this woman’s name, or what her “sin” was; nor does it matter ultimately. She is healed, set free, restored to her dignity. Yet it is the Pharisee, the host in whose home this scene is happening, who is in need of conversion. He looks at the woman only to judge her – and by extension, he judges Jesus. In contrast, Jesus looks at this woman with mercy: he sees one who expresses much love, because she has experienced Jesus’ healing forgiveness.

When I celebrate a marriage, I often comment that whoever came up with the line “love means never having to say you’re sorry” (first heard in the 1970 film Love Story) was obviously never married! No, love means often saying we are sorry – sometimes, even before we know what we have done wrong! More to the point, love means always being ready to forgive. The witness of married couples – their trust, fidelity, openness to life, perseverance, generosity, and hospitality – is a powerful one indeed. So let us pray for all the married couples in our parish, especially those who this weekend celebrate special wedding anniversaries. May our loving God keep them faithful and constant in their love for each other.

Let us also remember all those who have lost a spouse – to death, divorce, or separation – and those who are still waiting for their life’s partner. May we, as parish community, become family for one another, as together we bear witness to the life-giving, self-sacrificing love of Christ for us.