Paul was very worried - there were some in the Corinthian community who did not believe in the resurrection. They had either forgotten it or did not understand it properly. He had to remind them of the tradition that he had passed on to them. It concerned the death and resurrection of Christ, and his appearance to his followers. Paul had to explain that if Christ is not risen, then neither are we. In that case, this life is all there is - a hopeless conclusion. Christ is risen, and so we will rise; the life we live now, determines the life we will live then.

We often judge by outward appearances. How a person dresses, walks, talks, and behaves all form the opinion that we have of them. Our judgments can be harsh and unfair, for we cannot read the heart of another nor do we know the painful details of their life journey. Many at the dinner judged the woman as a sinner and were disgusted that Jesus allowed her to approach and even touch him. Jesus explained to his smug host that it was obvious this woman had been forgiven much, for she was loving much. Those still caught in sin and unforgiveness are not able to love fully. It is only when we forgive and are forgiven that the heart is set free. Let us forgive those who have wronged us and ask forgiveness from those we have hurt or mistreated. Our ability to love is at stake!