Verses 12 & 13 sparked
as I read, I knew these were my meditation verses for today. 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" (12-13).
These two statements appear
to be parallel comments reinforcing each other and their singular
message:
It is
not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.
For I
have not come to call the righteous, but
sinners.
Jesus didn’t come for people who were already ‘good’ or
who already had right standing with God. No, He came to save those who were in
trouble. He came to save sinners. Metaphorically He came to heal those who were
sick.
A purposeful reading of
Romans 1-3:20 shows that no one is righteous. No one is ‘good.’ (check out my
sermon from February 24, 2013, if you want to hear me speak on Romans 1-3:20).
Everyone is a sinner, everyone is ‘sick’ and we all need a
Savior.
Therefore Jesus hanging
around with tax collectors and sinners is why He came and what He needs to do if
He is to fulfill His saving mission. The Pharisees are only fooling themselves
into thinking they are righteous and healthy. Sadly, by doing so, they will miss
what Jesus came to give. Salvation!
My
take-with-me-throughout-the-day thoughts…
#1 Don’t fool myself, I
NEED a Savior. I need JESUS and His
Redemption/Salvation.
#2 Am I hanging with those
who need what Jesus can give or am I insulating myself from sinners and
therefore depriving God of using me to share the message of
Jesus?
Jesus, again
and again I come to the point of thanking You for saving me. I am there again
today! Thank You. Bless You. Alleluia.
I am also
realizing that I have to be more intentional about sharing the great news that
has saved me with others. Help me! This requires a change of thought and focus
for me…
In Your name
and for Your glory, I pray. Amen.
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