Luke 7:36–50 + Les Misérables by Victor Hugo

Jesus could have taught in lectures, but instead, He told stories. His listeners were captivated by stories about fathers and sons, widows and judges, banquets and vineyards, lost coins, unexpected neighbors, and servants waiting in the night. At first glance, the parables in the Gospel of Luke seem simple. But beneath these familiar stories lies a deeper invitation—not merely to understand the symbolism of the parables, but to be transformed by them.

In this series of the Be Still podcast, Lisa journeys through some of the most beloved parables in the Gospel of Luke. Each episode pairs Scripture with a memorable work of literature, exploring how great stories help us recognize ourselves in Jesus' teaching and encounter the heart of God in a fresh way.

Together we'll discover that the parables are not just stories Jesus told long ago. They are stories that continue to tell the truth about us—and about the God who is still seeking, forgiving, inviting, and restoring His people today.

In today’s episode, Lisa explores the parable of the two debtors in Luke 7, pairing one of Jesus' most unforgettable parables with one of the greatest novels ever written. Why do some people respond to God's grace with overwhelming love while others remain untouched by it? In this gospel, a woman known for her sinful past pours out extravagant love at Jesus' feet, while Simon the Pharisee watches with quiet judgment. Jesus responds with a simple story about two debtors—and reveals a truth that has the power to change every human heart.

Alongside this gospel account, Lisa explores Victor Hugo's Les Misérables, where Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert embody two radically different ways of understanding righteousness, mercy, and grace.

Together, these stories ask the same question:

Will we come to God holding a résumé—or with empty hands?

Lisa explores:

• Why Jesus tells Simon a story instead of condemning him
• What the woman at Simon's table understood that Simon missed
• Why forgiveness is a gift we receive, not something we earn
• The striking parallels between Simon the Pharisee and Inspector Javert
• How Jean Valjean's transformation begins with an unexpected act of mercy
• Why grace doesn't minimize sin—it transforms sinners
• What Jesus meant when He said, "He who is forgiven little loves little"
• How recognizing our own need for mercy changes the way we see everyone else

Whether you've read Les Misérables many times or have never opened its pages, this episode is an invitation to encounter the heart of the gospel again—to discover that grace is not a reward for the worthy but a gift for those who know they need it.

Journaling Questions

1. Where am I tempted to come to God with a résumé instead of empty hands? In what area of my life am I subtly trying to earn His love or approval rather than simply receiving His grace?
2. Is there someone I have quietly defined by their worst mistake? Ask the Lord to help you see that person through His eyes, remembering that His grace has the power to transform every human heart.

Key Scripture
Luke 7:36–50.

Show Mention
Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Spiritual Motherhood: The Transforming Power of the Feminine Genius is now available in our shop. 

Let’s stay connected.

Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform.