There is a story in the seventh chapter of the Gospel of Luke, which I have found very helpful while praying about my work as a Christian Science nurse. The story takes place at the house of Simon the Pharisee, where he had invited Christ Jesus to eat with him (see Luke 7:36–50). While this is going on, a woman considered a sinner comes in. She is not welcome in such company, but it doesn’t seem to matter to her. She begins to wash Jesus’ feet with her repentant tears, and anoints his feet with oil. Jesus, recognizing her love and faith, forgives her sins.
One of the first things that strikes me about this situation is the woman’s utter surrender and humility at the feet of Jesus. Though she is subject to the host’s condemnation, it doesn’t appear that she pays any attention to anything but her absolute devotion to Jesus and all that he stood for. She doesn’t defend herself, but lets the Christ be her advocate.
I think of the Christ as a serene light, illuminating where hope and healing are needed. The Christ shows us that our God-given identity is wholly good and spiritual—the exact likeness of divine Love. I like to think that I can leave behind a material concept of identity and understand our true spiritual nature by recognizing that the Christ is quietly and calmly present when I am caring for a patient.
