From Judgement To Devotion
LENT DEVOTIONAL 2026 | DAY 14
Luke 7:36–50 (NIV)
By Vincent Hong, Chairperson, Mandarin Ministry
READ:
Luke 7:36–50 (NIV)
In this passage, Jesus is invited to dinner at the home of Simon, a Pharisee. A sinful woman enters uninvited, wets His feet with her tears, and then dries them with her hair, kisses them and anoints them with expensive perfume. Simon, scornful of the woman’s sinful reputation, silently judges both the woman and Jesus. Knowing exactly what Simon is thinking, Jesus addresses him with a parable about two people in debt, and highlights the stark contrast between the cold reception He received from Simon and the fervent, generous devotion shown by the woman.
This passage stopped me in my tracks with a piercing question: Am I really offering my best to God? Due to the shortage of volunteers in the Mandarin Ministry, I’m sometimes scheduled to lead worship twice in one month. To serve as both the worship leader and guitarist demands significant commitments of time and effort. I confess that sometimes I’m tempted to choose familiar songs to minimise practice time, especially when juggling family commitments, work pressures and frequent business travel. In contrast, this woman had poured out everything for Jesus without holding back.
I’ve also struggled with frustration and judgement towards those who don’t seem fully prepared for rehearsal and appear unable to achieve the musical arrangements I envision. This passage reminds me sharply: I don’t know what others are going through. My fellow worship volunteers may well be offering God everything they have within the constraints of their own life circumstances.
Heavenly Father, I come before You needing Your help to become the servant You’ve called me to be. In my service, help me give You my best, not my leftovers. When I’m tempted to choose convenience over excellence, remind me of the woman who poured out everything for Jesus. In my relationships, forgive my judgement and criticism of others. I don’t know their struggles or circumstances. Help me assume the best, ask caring questions, and offer encouragement. Make me quick to help and slow to judge.
Keep me mindful of how much You’ve forgiven me, break my self-righteousness and clothe me in humility. Help me remember: I’m a forgiven sinner serving a gracious Saviour. Transform my heart so my life brings You glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
[ Reflection Questions ]
1. In your own life or ministry, what does it look like to offer God your best rather than what’s most convenient?
2. Simon judged both Jesus and the woman without knowing their hearts. Where and when are you tempted to make similar judgements about others who serve alongside you?
3. In what situations in your life can you be “quick to help and slow to judge”?
