QUESTION

     Here is Jesus washing the disciples’ feet trying to show them that they are here as we all are to serve others in love in caring with an open heart.

     The usual custom when entering a home, out of respect is to remove our shoes. But in Jesus’ time it was the custom when entering a home, the owner would offer washing the feet of the guests.

      So, after Jesus washes the disciples’ feet did anyone there think maybe I should now wash Jesus’ feet. Nothing is mentioned.  Maybe one of them did? Who really did?

ANSWER                Luke 7: 36-38

      Here is Simon a Pharisee inviting Jesus for a meal in his home.  For whatever reason he forgets to offer a washing of Jesus’ feet as again was the usual custom.

But what happens next is utterly heart breaking as a prostitute comes with deep sorrow for her sinful life and only with her tears and very expensive oil washed Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. Jesus recognizing her humble and contrite heart, forgave her many sins and that her faith had saved her.

STORY GOES ON IN  Luke 7 39-50

      Jesus continues with a story about a man loaning $5000 to one and $500 to another. When neither could pay, the man forgave them their debt.  Who was more grateful?

LESSON

      With the wealth of our sinfulness how truly repentant and grateful are we?  At the beginning of every Mass we say a penitential rite by taking a moment (which should be longer than 2 seconds) to confess our sins. Why? To get ready for receiving Jesus under our roof of our souls later.  And what comes after this is the Gloria. Because anyone who was truly forgiven or healed rejoiced along with those around them in great expression of gratitude. That’s why! But is my heart in singing it?

TOOL BOX 

      Picture this as you go to confession. There find Jesus’ feet all covered with your dirty sins and in tearful heartfelt forgiveness like that prostitute did in Simon’s home you wash Jesus’ feet again in utter faith that Jesus will and has forgiven you. He has washed you with His forgiving love through the priest.

       This is what good news looks like especially in God’s living word. And you thought that John’s story was over when it was just beginning. So now you know the story behind the story. May this story and your next confession be far more forgiving and fruitful than ever before.