Listen to this devotion
Extravagant Forgiveness
In the Word
“Your sins are forgiven” (Luke 7:48b).
Of the Word
The German language has many different words to describe these. What are they?
Kisses
One kiss cannot possibly be described in any language. It is the kiss of Judas, the disciple who betrayed Jesus. Scripture says, Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him (Matthew 26:49).
A kiss usually shows love, but Judas’ kiss was a betrayal. When we put others before God, spending time with them instead of Him, we are betraying Him, too.
How different the sinful woman was! … and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them (Luke 7:38). Her kisses showed what was in her heart. Jesus told this woman the very same thing He wants to tell you today, “Your sins are forgiven” (Luke 7:48b).
Walking with my Lord
O God, forgive the many times I have betrayed You by failure to speak and act or by words and actions that were wrong. Help me to be a bold and faithful witness. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Simple Trust. Elaine Bickel, author. 16/29 ©2011 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
