
Sin separates us from God, from ourselves, and from each other; forgiveness connects us to God, to ourselves, and to each other. If we are bound by chains, we can’t raise our hands in praise of God, clasp our hands in prayer to God, hug ourselves or someone else. But if we are freed from our chains, we can raise our hands in praise of God, clasp our hands in prayer to God, hug ourselves or someone else. Sin separates; forgiveness connects.
Why was the woman able to accept forgiveness and be free, while the Pharisee wasn’t able to accept forgiveness and be free? Awareness and humility. The woman was aware that she was a sinner and she was humble enough to accept forgiveness, whereas the Pharisee was not aware that he was a sinner and was not humble enough to accept forgiveness. Remember, the woman came and knelt at Jesus’ feet, whereas the Pharisee was all puffed up with self-righteousness.
FULL SERMON HERE