SCRIPTURE

Later, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. But 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.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” - Matthew 9:10-13 NLT

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PRAYER

Jesus,

Thank you for taking a seat at the table with sinners, a simple act of sharing a meal, intentionally building relationship and friendship. You are a personal, intimate God full of compassion and grace. Help me recognize my need for you and seek your healing touch like I do a doctor when I’m sick. As you continue to work in my life, help me, in turn, show mercy to others and invite them to the table where they can come to know you, too.

In your name,

Amen.

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JOURNAL REFLECTION

Would you describe yourself in your younger years as righteous or sinner? Would you have judged the company Jesus was keeping? Would you have been invited by Matthew or the Pharisees (religious fanatics)?

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CALL TO ACTION

Today’s prayer invites us to recognize the fact that we need God, and we always need to pursue our relationship with him. As you consider this prayer, share a prayer of thanksgiving to God for all he has done in your life, and ask him to shift your focus to him in all things.