(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Matthew 9:11-12 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?”
When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.”
Chances are pretty high that Matthew wasn’t well-liked in many Jewish circles. Being a tax collector meant Matthew worked directly for the Roman Empire. As such, he was likely an outcast by Jewish standards.
But then Matthew did something even more profane – he held a large dinner gathering and invited many other disreputable sinners. What did Jesus do? Did he come along side Matthew and say, “You know, maybe this isn’t such a good idea after all?” Of course not! Jesus enjoyed the dinner party and took the opportunity to hang out with the sinners there. Why? Because they had rarely received mercy from others and Jesus desired to reflect the mercy of God upon them.
Living like Jesus means that you live with a strong desire to reflect the mercy of God upon others.
READING & PRAYERS:
MATTHEW 9:1-17 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: On a scale of 1-10, how strong is your desire to reflect the mercy of God upon others?
QUESTION: What steps can you take to increase this desire within the next week? Month? Year? (Be specific.)
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, every day I see aspects of the brokenness of our world. And I confess that sometimes when I see this lack of emotional and spiritual health in others, I’m quick to judge or criticize them for their uncleanliness instead of being quick to invite them to the table. Continue to help me become like You, quick to invite other disreputable sinners to the table. Quick to call them friends, not outcasts. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
south ridge blog 