Look again

Scripture

Luke 15: 1 “Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach”.

 

Observation

The despised and the notorious! These were the people drawn to the message of hope. As Jesus spoke he challenged the legalistic stance the religious had established and opened a window of hope for those who had already been judged as unworthy. And heaven celebrated everytime one of these accepted the message Christ offered.

 

Application

How often do I overlook the despised and the notorious as unworthy recipients of grace and forgiveness? Have my motives and attitudes become hardened towards those who have separated themselves from the mainstream of society? It is so easy to judge another person but Christ calls me to look again and see the opportunity for a new beginning – a rescued soul.

 

Prayer

Jesus, you came to rescue the lost. Sin has drawn us away from you and we entertain it – some notoriously! But you came to seek and save the lost and you have commissioned me to that cause. Help me to look again.

 

Jim Jung