Every last penny

Today’s reading and Gospel both act as Lenten reminders about asking for forgiveness and reconciliation.

The last few lines of the gospel, ending with, “Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny,” speak to the fact that all sins are equal in God’s eyes, and that it is imperative for our salvation that we ask for forgiveness of these sins and seek to do better instead of comparing our sins against someone else. 

This reminder is one that I needed to hear this Lenten season. There is a lot of bad in the world today, and it is easy to slip into the comparative mindset that what I do, think or say is comparatively harmless when juxtaposed against the sins of others or society as a whole. Moreover, it can feel like small acts of goodness are hopeless or meaningless in a world of negativity. However, at the end of the day we are judged against ourselves, not others. It is also a great reminder that all acts of goodness, no matter how big or small, how much they impact the world or others around us, are important. 

Deeds are counted in pennies, not dollars, and we will not reach our personal salvation until every last penny is paid.

Author: Leanne Applegate, Science Department