Who is the mystery woman in today’s Gospel reading? Some scholars claim she is Mary Magdalene; other academics maintain she is probably some prostitute or adulteress. Names do matter, but they do not have to define who we are. Although nameless, she is a woman of great faith who risks social scorn to pay homage to Jesus. She is intent on seeing Jesus. She has reportedly disobeyed many social norms and is not “proper,” having her hair down when it’s customary for women to have their hair up.

She is certainly not welcome in the house of a pharisee – a civil servant known for venerating rules and regulations. Unimpressed though by others’ prejudices, she approaches Jesus – who his host has shamefully neglected – and weeps in an outpouring of love. She then dries Jesus’ feet with her hair. She kisses His feet and anoints them with her costly perfume.

Simon observes this unacceptable behavior and questions Jesus’ status as the prophet he thought he was. The Pharisee’s world is being challenged; he is confused; – but the unnamed, unwelcomed “guest” does not care, nor does Jesus. He responds by telling the Parable of the Moneylender and asking Simon who would love more. Simon responds: “The one forgiven the greater debt,” and Jesus tells him he has judged correctly. He hopes that the Pharisee understands the lesson.

Jesus then turns to the woman and says, “Your sins are forgiven.” And while those at the table are deliberating Jesus’ identity, he continues: “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” The unwelcomed, unnamed woman is now the forgiven, saved, and loved one. She is no longer anonymous.

Let Us Pray:

Dear Lord Jesus Christ, we pray for your mercy when we act like Simon and your grace to be more like your faithful, unnamed servant. May Saint Peter Julian guide us to abandon ourselves, understanding that “to be possessed by Jesus and to possess Him – that is the perfect reign of Love.” Amen.