A Parable of the Times

Once, Jesus was invited to the home of a church person. He went and sat down to have a beautiful dinner with him and his friends. Although the church people were skeptical of this Jesus guy, it was an honor to have him in their home and word spread quickly. Lots of people gathered outside, hoping for a glimpse. One brave woman found her way in. She brought a jar of expensive perfume and was visibly shaken. Crying, she knelt by Jesus, her tears wetting his feet. She wiped them with her hair and poured perfume on them.

When the "Church people" saw what was happening they began speaking quietly to each other. I thought this guy was a prophet - if he were, he'd know who "she" is and what "she's" got under those robes. We've got a special bathroom for "her."

Jesus turned to the host with a question.

"A man suffered from crushing debt. Early in his life a local benefactor took pity on him and paid the debt, so the young man could live an easy and productive life. Another spent her whole life suffering from such a debt before she had the good fortune to run into that benefactor and experience his generosity. Who will love that benefactor more?"

The host replied, "the one who suffered longest."

Jesus answered, "You have forgotten what it's like to be ridiculed, scared, threatened, or disowned - perhaps you never knew. This woman is grateful for even the most basic human kindness; you chose not even to honor my presence in your home."