Remembering Where We've Come From

"Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion." - Psalm 103:2-4 
  
Have you ever experienced a moment of irony where someone who should be expressing gratitude fails to do so, while another unexpected individual lavishly pours out their thanks? In the story of Jesus dining at Simon the Pharisee's house, we witness this exact scenario.

Jesus, as the honored guest, points out Simon's lack of hospitality, contrasting it with the extravagant display of gratitude shown by Mary. However, there's a deeper layer of irony here that reveals an important truth about forgiveness and gratitude.
 
You see, while Simon is now known as a Pharisee—a respected member of the religious elite—he was once Simon the Leper. This detail is highlighted in Matthew and Mark's accounts, reminding us of Simon's past as an outcast afflicted with a contagious and debilitating disease.

As a leper, Simon experienced firsthand the stigma, isolation, and suffering that came with his condition. He was excluded from society, barred from the temple, and deprived of the most basic human interactions. Yet, somewhere along the way, Jesus healed him, restoring him to health and wholeness.
 
The irony, then, is striking. Simon, who was once an outcast in need of healing and redemption, now fails to extend hospitality and gratitude to the very One who transformed his life. Meanwhile, Mary, often misunderstood and marginalized, recognizes the depth of her forgiveness and responds with overwhelming gratitude and love.

This story serves as a powerful reminder that forgiven people remember where they've come from. When we reflect on our own lives, we may see moments of brokenness, shame, and despair. We may recall times when we felt unworthy, unloved, and hopeless.
 
But just as Jesus healed Simon of his leprosy, He has healed us of our sins and shortcomings. He has redeemed us from the pit of despair and crowned us with love and compassion. How can we not respond with heartfelt gratitude and praise?

Remember where you came from. Remember when God forgave you and continue to be grateful for the grace and mercy He endlessly shows us.