Read Luke 7:36-50
“And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil and stood at His feet behind Him weeping…”—Luke 7:37-38
Simon the Pharisee invited Jesus to dinner but failed to follow custom and provide a means for guests to wash their feet. As Jesus reclined to eat, a sinful woman showed up uninvited, washed His feet with her tears, dried them with her hair, and anointed them with a perfumed oil. It was a daring act that broke a number of Jewish customs. Ignoring the ridicule she would face from other dinner guests, the woman came without apology, humbled herself to wash the Lord’s feet and worshiped the only One who could save her.
Like that woman, I don’t go to the House of God and worship because I have it together. I go because I recognize my failures and challenges. I go regardless what others may think or say; unconcerned with their judgments. Instead, I seek an audience before The Judge who can save me from myself. I’ll not allow the enemy’s accusations keep me from acknowledging God’s faithfulness. I worship because despite my unworthiness, He is worthy. I worship and thank God in advance that my current condition is not the conclusion on who I am.
Time and again we see Jesus welcoming society’s outcasts and calling every manner of sinner to salvation. Still today, Jesus calls us into fellowship with Him. He tells us to bypass the things, conditions, even the people who distract us from worship. He beckons us to boldly and unapologetically seek His face.
Regardless of your state of human frailty and perceived inadequacy, diligently continue to seek and worship God. Let no one deter you from worship. He is waiting to talk to you. God ever cares for and loves you. Never allow yourself be convinced otherwise!
“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”—Hebrews 11:6
Lesson to Remember: Never apologize for worshiping the only One who can save you!
Once again, thank you for your words, Deacon Nat. I have once again been blessed by your words. There are times when we just need to be reminded, that it’s okay to show your Love for the Lord ” out loud”. Amen.
Indeed! Regardless what others say or do, we need to worship God! Thank you.
A thought provoking piece which speaks to me personally. Thank you.
Amen. Like many of these, it was personal and spoke to me also!