Forgiveness and gratitude

C.S. Lewis wrote, "Everyone thinks forgiveness is a great idea until they have someone, or something, to forgive." Pastor Barbara Moyer Lehman shared this quote and then reflected on Luke 7:36-50 and the message of forgiveness found there. Can we recognize our own need for forgiveness? If we cannot, will we even recognize where we have been forgiven? The sinful woman in the Luke 7 passage recognized her need and received the gift with joy. Simon the Pharisee did not see his need, and remained trapped, missing the joy of being forgiven. With whom do we identify in this story? May we experience God's lavish gift of forgiveness in our lives. May we be like Jesus and move toward those on the margins to offer grace. How might we be surprised by grace and forgiveness today?