A Daily Devotional with Pastor Doug Crouse  June 17, 2018   What Do You Think?   Scripture Reading – Luke 7:39 - 40 (NLT) "When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, 'If this man were a prophet, he would know what kind of a woman is touching him. She's a sinner!' Then Jesus answered his thoughts. 'Simon,' he said to the Pharisee, 'I have something to say to you.' 'Go ahead, Teacher,' Simon replied."  

The Pharisees were known in their day as those who externally at least fulfilled the eyes of what a good religious’ person would do. If we were to compare them to many in the eyes of the world today that would be, 'good church folk'. Those who go to church every or at least on most Sunday's, put money in the plate, pray and even make time in their very busy lives to do their, 'Christian service'...people kind of like us in the church.

This was such a proud day for Simeon, who had Jesus as his very own invited guest in his home to parade before all of his friends. Until a lady of the night a prostitute entered, uninvited at least by Simeon. I've always wondered how it was exactly that Simeon knew what this lady did for a living?

But as he was thinking these thoughts and looking down with disgust at this woman who was a filthy, 'sinner', at least in his eyes - reading his mind even before he spoke suddenly and out loud in front of all of his friends Jesus asked Simeon, 'What Do You Think?'

It really is a question that should arrest our hearts in the church. At least when there is any time that we are tempted to place ourselves as above any one else. For it was clear what Jesus thought. This was a woman for whom He came to give His very life. A lady who knew she was in need of a Savior.

In these days when we will be surrounded by people who are broken, hurting, going the wrong way in life, despondent to God, may we allow the Holy Spirit to monitor what we are thinking, saying and doing, because one day Jesus will ask us the same question.  

Prayer Heavenly Father thank-You for Your grace and forgiveness so rich and free in my life. May I be one who reaches out in the love, grace, holiness and purity of my Savior unashamedly to all those who will come and call upon the name of Jesus.  

Memory Verse:  Ephesians 4:32 NLT “Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."