Today’s Readings:
Isaiah 58:9-14
Psalm 85:1-6
Luke 5:27-32
A lot of people justify their sympathy for notorious sinners with the words, "Jesus ate and drank with tax collectors and sinners". Do you know the reason Jesus did this? After some scribes and Pharisees saw him at Levi's (Matthew's) place, eating and drinking and having a good time, they sneered at him. In his defence, Jesus says, "I have not come to call the virtuous but sinners to repentance" (Luke 5:32). Jesus did not deny the fact that he was eating with sinners. He was more intent on the purpose of their meeting which is for them to repent. But for this to happen, He has to descend to their level, to meet them where they are. Even here, there are terms and conditions. Scriptures tell us that He became like all men are and yet did not sin (Hebrews 4:15). All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. We need to be restored to God's glory. This is the reason Jesus came. To cling to sin is to reject God's glory. To cling to Christ is to say bye-bye to sin. Which will it be for you?
In practical terms, why did Jesus choose to hang out with sinners?
He came to reveal to us our true identity as children of God.
He came to grant pardon for our sins.
He seeks us out where we are so that we understand that God loves us.
He came to lift us out of our sins and give us a share in the Father's glory.
Our relationship with Him heals us so that we may in turn bring healing and reconciliation to our relationships.
He comes to show us that true happiness is found, not in sin, but in a life of holiness.
He comes to reason with us and to soften our hearts to hear God's word (Ezekiel 36:26-27).
He comes to lift us out of our difficult situations with His grace.
He shows us that we are never alone in our trials and tribulations; He is always close to us.
He comes to show us that we are responsible for our actions and the well-being of others.
Spend time with Jesus today. Through prayer, confession and the Eucharist, let Him heal and strengthen you. May the grace of God flowing through the Passion, death and Resurrection of Christ bring you healing and total liberation through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud:
Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I believe and surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart, keep me from all evil, and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank You, Lord!
If you said the above short prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest, as the case may be.
Prayer:
Lord, have mercy on me a sinner, in Jesus' name.
Give me the courage to come out of my sins and embrace true freedom, joy and peace through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
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