A theme which frequently comes up in Christian spirituality and scriptures is that of debt, namely the debt we owe to God in justice for the grievous nature of our sins and offenses against One who is all good and all holy. Understood in a contemporary idiom, we are totally bankrupt, and have no other place to turn for relief.
When dealing with finances, recovery from debt requires a complete change of life and lifestyle. Rather than spending on desires such as vacations and new cars, one concentrates on providing needs such as food and shelter. Rather than being wasteful, idle and proud, one must become resourceful, productive, and humble.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus encounters a woman in his debt. She recognizes him as her creditor for the error of her former ways, but most importantly she calls out to him as "Lord". Wishing to repent and make good on her debt, she offers him all she has: her tears, her faith, and the last precious item she owned in this world, a flask of perfumed oil. What is Jesus’ response? He recognizes that she is richer than any of the dignitaries he is dining with. Your faith has saved you, (your faith has made you whole!) go in peace. (Luke 7:50) This is a message of hope and encouragement for sinners everywhere. Our debts have been paid in Christ who accepts our faith and repentance as the most precious ‘currency’ around. We need only turn our lives toward him and figure out what is truly valuable in our lives.
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