- Luke 7:50
 
These are blessed words! They fell as a heavenly balm upon the distracted soul of this distressed woman. There was a period in her life when she found pleasure in sinning. Like so many in our day she probably said, "This is the life." while she was giving herself up to sensual indulgence. But that time was past. She realized her folly; she was ashamed of her record; her conscience was aroused; she feared God and His wrath. Then she heard Jesus speak. He spoke words of forgiveness and peace, words of a new hope and a new life. So she crept to His feet and bathed them with penitential tears and poured out her gratitude in the form of precious ointment.
 
While the proud and self-righteous Pharisees condemned her as a sinner, a vile wretch beyond the mercy of god, Jesus recognized her repentance and . . .

- Luke 7:50
 
These are blessed words! They fell as a heavenly balm upon the distracted soul of this distressed woman. There was a period in her life when she found pleasure in sinning. Like so many in our day she probably said, "This is the life." while she was giving herself up to sensual indulgence. But that time was past. She realized her folly; she was ashamed of her record; her conscience was aroused; she feared God and His wrath. Then she heard Jesus speak. He spoke words of forgiveness and peace, words of a new hope and a new life. So she crept to His feet and bathed them with penitential tears and poured out her gratitude in the form of precious ointment.
 
While the proud and self-righteous Pharisees condemned her as a sinner, a vile wretch beyond the mercy of god, Jesus recognized her repentance and plea for pardon. How tenderly He spoke to her: "Thy sins are forgiven." How graciously He assured her: "Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace."
 
Christian friends, through all these centuries our compassionate Savior has spoken these selfsame words to sin-bruised hearts. He is ready to speak them to you and to me this day, if only we come to Him as did this woman, with a penitent and believing heart. Let us listen when we partake of Communion and hear from the pastor: "Go in peace." This is an application of Christ's own words. Let us treasure it. Let us manifest its divine influence in our way of living.
 
     Forgive me, O LORD, for all of my sin,
     Please make my heart pure and cleanse me within;
     Confessing to You what I have done wrong,
     Restore now my joy-to You I belong.
 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - Confession is the key that opens the door to forgiveness.