Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7:50)
When Kashi (a pseudonym) was five years old, she was taken from her family and sold. For ten years, she was forced to work, often beaten and locked in a dark room without food or water. By the time she was fifteen, Kashi had been raped countless times, convinced that no one would ever listen to or believe her story. She was then sold to a brothel, expected to serve fifteen to twenty customers per day. Months later, Kashi was rescued with the help of International Justice Mission. Finally, someone not only listened to her story but also believed her. Today, Kashi is restored and transformed, speaking out to ensure that her story will not be repeated.
The gospel brings holistic transformation. In the eyes of the Pharisee, this uninvited woman was nothing more than a sinner, unworthy of being loved. But Jesus turned everything upside down, showing how in his kingdom, the broken, the humble, and the outsiders are welcomed in with open arms. The generous, transforming love of God has been made available to everyone.
This is the gospel. No matter where you come from or what your story is, Jesus offers you his forgiveness and transforming love. And with that comes new life—life with purpose, life with faith, life with peace. Jesus believes in you; now it is up to you to live out your purpose.
Go in peace and live out your purpose.
Jenn Petersen co-pastors Resurrection Life NYC, a Wesleyan congregation in Manhattan. Passionate about discipleship, worship, and justice, she also works for International Justice Mission.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
