Once there was a merchant named Shamin. He was a prosperous businessman and an ardent devotee of Lord. One day he invited Jesus over to his house. After welcoming Him warmly he served Jesus a sumptuous meal which he relished very much. After the meal was over, Jesus sat down on a stool and several disciples thronged Shamin’s house to catch a glimpse of the holy Christ. Amongst the devotees was a beautiful woman named Mary, who had left her ugly profession of prostitution and had started leading a pious life. She bowed before Jesus, got His blessings and then invited Him to her house. Next day Jesus obliged her by visiting her house.
This context spread everywhere and many people including Jesus’ own disciples started objecting and criticizing this gesture. On hearing this Jesus called his followers and said, ” Whoever repents for his/her wrong doings becomes pure and innocent. A real sinner is one who does not want to deviate from the path of transgression. Mary left the tarnished path and started leading a religious life, hence she should not be subjected to contempt and oppression. In fact, she deserves forgiveness, love and respect for her courage and honesty.” Jesus further remarked, ” In order to sweep the floor clean the broom must reach the dust, and not stay away from it.”
Pragya Puran-3,
Pg.-163