…for I have come to call not those who think they are righteous but those who know they are sinners. Matthew 9:13 [NLT]

I was reading this morning about Jesus eating with many disreputable sinners and how that bothered the religious people of his day. If you read about Jesus in the bible you constantly find him associating and traveling with disreputable sinners. Why did this bother the religious people? Some people have tried so hard to earn a place at the table with Jesus. Somehow in there attempt to live a perfect life they have elevated themselves above their neighbors and friends. Thinking all their hard work has earned them more of the love of God. At the same time these same people try to make others, who don’t live just like them, feel like they are unworthy of God’s love.

I find it very refreshing to see Jesus hanging out with disreputable sinners. None of us are perfect. Jesus is clear to state here that he did not come for those who think they are perfect and righteous already but for those who know they are sinners. Knowing that you are not perfect is not something that you have to hide. Actually it is something to be proud of. It is a healthy realization. If you think everything is perfect you won’t need any help. I know I need God’s help each day. I find comfort in knowing that he loves me just the way I am.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of joining a good friend of mine and a group of  20+ retired adults in their bible study at their apartment complex, Saint Therese at Oxbow Lake.  As we entered their small chapel, I saw a look of anticipation on the faces of the members of this group.  But not long after arriving did I find out why as I watched my friend great each of these precious people with a loving embrace and kind words.  He made sure that not one person missed a hug.

I witnessed their faces light up as he dramatically shared about Jesus with them, later explaining to me that he had to be dramatic or some would fall asleep.  There was a lady sitting next to my friend who was used as an example and received many hugs while my friend shared about Jesus.  To watch her face and hear her giggles, and those of her husband that sat next to her, was a gift.  Each time she was embraced she seemed to hold on so tight as to never want to be let go. (more…)