We are told that a Pharisee - his name is Simon - was keen to have Jesus eat at his house. We should notice that Jesus accepted invitations from both Pharisees and tax collectors. Both were equally deserving of his love and service. Although her sudden entrance seems strange, it is clear that the woman's own intentions were sincere. We are told she was a sinner. "Sinner" here can only refer to some public immorality. She burst in, bringing an alabaster box of ointment. She immediately began crying and her abundant tears bathed Jesus' feet. She then began to dry his feet with her long hair. The fact that she wore her hair down or let it down in public itself indicates that she was a "loose" woman. She incessantly kissed the feet of Jesus and poured the ointment over them. Simon was deeply shocked. She was a sinner and no good person, least of all a rabbi, should allow anything remotely like that to take place. Jesus, fully aware of what was going on in Simon's mind, tells him a story about two debtors. Which of the two, Jesus asked, would be more grateful and appreciative? Now comes the point of the story: "Her many sins have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love." The one who has less forgiven loves less. And, turning to the woman at his feet, Jesus says, "Your sins are forgiven." And the guests at table begin to ask each other: "Who is this that he forgives sin?" Again Jesus says to the woman, "Your faith has made you whole again. Go in peace." Once again we see how God, in Jesus, always tries to rehabilitate and not to punish.