LUKE 7:36–50; ROMANS 5:8
In Japan, food products are meticulously prepared and packaged to ensure both taste and appearance. Despite the high quality standards, products with slight defects are often discarded. However, wakeari products, meaning “there is a reason” in Japanese, have gained popularity in recent years. These products are sold at a low price for a specific reason—their slight defects.
Wakeri is also a catchphrase for those who are obviously imperfect.
Jesus loves all people, including the wakeari, who are often overlooked by society. A woman was called “a sinner” by the Pharisee (Luke 7:39), but Jesus welcomed her. Assuring her that her offences were forgiven, he talked softly to her (Luke 7:48). By dying for us while we were still sinners, Jesus showed us how much He loved us. As recipients of His love, we should be conduits, allowing others to know they can receive God’s love despite their imperfections.
🙏Lord, help us to avoid hypocrisy and to open our hearts to others with acceptance and love that demonstrate Your concern for them.
📷: Tinnakorn Jorruang
