One day Jesus was walking when He saw a man, Matthew, sitting performing his job, which happened to be that of collecting taxes. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him” (Matthew 9:9b, NLT). And Matthew did just that.
Later on, upon Matthew’s invitation, Jesus went to have dinner at Matthew’s house, which caused quite a stir among the Pharisees. They could not understand how Jesus could sit with the likes of Matthew.
Jesus addressed the true condition of their hearts which were rooted in self-righteousness …
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.’ I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” (Matthew 9: 12-13, NLT)
This portion has stayed with me for a few days, the words prompting the following questions:
- Jesus noticed those around Him —> “as he walked along” (verse 9). Do I notice those around me as I go about my day or do I just keep on walking?
- Jesus will show up in the midst of my day, in the midst of my routine, and in the midst of my activity. “So Matthew got up and followed him” (verse 9b). Will I permit Him to interrupt my day, my routine, or my activities and follow Him?
- We are not always the people we “think” we are. The Pharisees “thought” they were righteous when in actuality, they were sinners. Do I let Him show me where I need to change? Do I let Him then change me?
Prayer: Lord, you are asking me three very thought provoking questions. Help me to take note of those around me, interacting and showing them Your love for them. Help me to be willing to set aside my own routine and agenda each day, leaving room for You to show me where You would have me go and what You would have me to do. And Lord, help me to remember I am a sinner. I need You to make, and keep, me spiritually healthy. Help me never to forget my great need for You. Amen.
Today I am joining … #ChasingCommunity and Heart Encouragement Thursday and Tune In Thursday and Salt & Light .
Joanne, I’m always encouraged to think about Scripture when you open the Word for us. Thanks for these good thoughts on a passage that I’ve read many times, but never lingered over.
Michele, your words of encouragement blessed me deeply. Thank you! The older I am getting, the more I am lingering over smaller portions of Scripture. My days of “speed reading” are over 🙂 There is treasure and wisdom I want, and need, to discover. Grateful for you!
I love how you take what you’re sharing in SOAP and expanding it. Your insights are valuable and I appreciate how your thoughts give me more to think about.
Debbie, I am so grateful for our study group. I continually am amazed at how a few verses can bring to light so much when we take the time to dig into them and share.
Hmm… those questions are eye-opening ,,, especially the statement, “We are not always the people we “think” we are.”
The thought of thinking I’m okay when I’m not really is very scary to me! Another reason to get as close to Jesus as I possibly can …
Truly He is the only One to search our hearts. He is the only one to keep us, protect us, and keep us on the path of Truth.
Joanne,
Great questions to ask ourselves and really ponder. I remember Chuck Colson (Prison Fellowship Ministry Founder) talking about how prisoners KNOW they need saving and are sinners. It’s those of us who “think” we are doing okay and are living just fine that need to ask ourselves if our righteousness is just filthy rags?? You’ve got me thinking…
Blessings,
Bev xx
Chuck Colson … yes, he sure knew how to make me think as well. Your comment combined with his quote made me realize this … It’s a fine line between filthy rags and robes of righteousness. Jesus makes all the difference. Now you’ve got me thinking, my friend! xo