Scripture
Matthew 9:12,13-On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Observation
One of my fears is that one day the church will be like that. I wonder if the church, which should be representing Jesus, is now comfortable with the religious people, but is turning off the sinners, the homeless, or anyone off the street, and the common folks. Jesus said, “I don’t want sacrifice. I want mercy—compassion and concern for everyone."
Application
I hope unbelievers can still relate to us as the church as well. I hope they don’t look at the church as being holier-than-thou. I hope people enjoy my company because I represent life and joy, that there’s a quality about me that attracts people—believers and sinners alike.
This is so true of Jesus. And such was true of Matthew, as he said to his friends, “Come on over to my house and meet the One who has shown such grace and mercy to me.”
When I read this part of scripture, feel like I need more “Matthew parties,” where I need to open my heart and home, saying, “I want you to be exposed to the One who’s changed me.”
Prayer
Lord Jesus thank you for changing my heart and my mind to see things the way You see them. And to see people and love them the way You see them. The believers and especially the common people, unbelievers, people that need to be saved. I pray Lord, that I will always maintain the heart and love for the lost. In Jesus Name I Pray. Amen.
