August 20

Today’s Reading - Matthew 9:9-13

(See also Mark 2:13-17; Luke 5:27-32)

Thought:

One of the characteristics of Jesus’ ministry that made Him such a polarizing figure with the Jews was the time that He spent with the “undesirables.” Unlike the religious leaders of the day who simply condemned and avoided them, Jesus spent time with the sinners and tax collectors. He did not do so to condone their behavior or justify their sins, but rather, to let them know that God loved them and to call them to repentance, giving them the opportunity for spiritual healing. It is the same message that the Word of God continually sends to us today. Whoever you are, whatever your sins might be, there is hope. God loves you and wants to have a relationship with you. If you are willing to repent and come to Him, forgiveness and spiritual healing are available Through Christ. What a beautiful message of compassion and hope!

What does the mercy and love of God mean to you?