Those People

"Later, Levi invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. (There were many people of this kind among Jesus’ followers.) But when the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with tax collectors and other sinners, they asked his disciples, 'Why does he eat with such scum? When Jesus heard this, he told them, 'Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call sinners not those who think they are already good enough'" Mark 2:15-17

 Looking in from the outside is not a fun place to be. Hearing of an activity that everyone else went to, but you weren't invited ... Walking up to a group talking and they immediately stop and disperse ... Entering a church only to receive the, "What are they doing here?" looks ... It doesn't feel good at all.

The verses for today reveal that the "holier than thou" attitude has been in effect for a really long time. Jesus wasn't a fan. He made himself available to anyone. He didn't follow the pattern of throwing stones at people, nor did he condone sinful behavior. His life was in perfect balance. 

I, for one, am very grateful that Jesus loves sinners, for I am one who sins. His forgiveness and grace are staggering. He longs for us to live in his grace and for us to extend it to others. Let's drop the stones. Let's also speak the truth, for the truth is what frees. However, it must be spoken with humility and respect. 

Grace and Peace, 

 Tom Wiles
tom@fallcreekchristian.org
Location: Fall Creek Christian Church, 1102 West 700 South, Pendleton, IN 46064, USA

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