Jesus Never Talked to a Prostitute

“Jesus never talked to a prostitute because he didn’t see a prostitute; he just saw a child of God whom he was madly in love with.” – Shane Claiborne

On the wall on the 4th floor at Siloam Mission, we have that quote posted. A staff member wrote it on a piece of card stock with a permanent marker to post during an event. That event was two years ago, but I liked the words so much that I just left it.

We often have groups, of all ages, up on the 4th floor and they see it. Some get it and just stand there and nod. Others don’t really understand what it means and ask about it.

Whether a follower of Jesus or not, we can see in history that he was one who saw the person and not their circumstance. And still knowing the circumstance, loved them anyway. He offered mercy and grace when others would have condemned.

During his human life, Jesus didn’t talk to a prostitute, a thief, or a murderer. He talked to his people; his children. Jesus didn’t fellowship with the criminal, the sick, the poor, the homeless, or the sinner. He was just with his people; his loved ones.

That’s why we keep that quote on the wall. We want to be an organization that sees people for who they are, not for their situation or circumstance in life. We want to see people the way Jesus sees them – as people; people who have potential and need to be loved.

I hope I never talk to a prostitute either.


Sarah Enns
Community Education Coordinator