11th Sunday - C

Commentary 

Luke  7:36 - 8:3

Prophet - One Who Tells Fortunes

But Whose Fortunes?

A prophet is commonly, and even incorrectly, described as one who can predict the future, or one who tells fortunes. 

Simon the Pharisee in this Gospel passage expects a prophet to know the inner secrets and even the hearts of people.  But Simon only sees negative things.  So, he quickly dismisses any possibility of Jesus being a prophet when Jesus does not meet his pessimistic expectations.  

Jesus, the true Prophet, tells a different kind of fortunes.  He knows God's graciousness and love for God's children. Consequently, Jesus recognizes God's forgiveness at work. He recognizes the woman's great love in her action and courage as her response to God's forgiveness. 

Jesus the Prophet tells God's fortunes.