Dave Patterson

“But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to his disciples, ‘Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?’” Luke 5: 30”

Please take a moment to read this week's entire passage!

When I read the Bible, I often default to seeing myself on the side of Jesus.  I like to imagine I’m part of his crowd, taking his teachings to heart.  In this story, I want to believe I’m one of his followers sitting down with the “sinners” alongside Jesus.  

However, I know I’ve asked the same question of others that the Pharisees ask of Jesus.  “Why are you hanging around with them?” And I know I’ve been on the receiving end of that question from others.  It makes me wonder if more times that not, I’m the Pharisee and not the follower.

I love hanging out with my church family.  I love my small group. I love the team of volunteers I work with.  I love being surrounded by people who share my beliefs. It’s a great foundation for my life, and one I absolutely know Jesus wants for me.

But I also know Jesus is asking me to go further. I know I’ve let differences separate me from other people.  Who are the “tax collectors” in my life that I’ve distanced myself from? Have I given up on relationships because of a difference in politics? Perceived social status? Where they send their kids to school? Because they don’t go to church?

I look at the similarities and differences, perhaps seeking validation on why these people and not those people.  I focus on avoiding negative influences on me, without faith that I can be a more powerful positive influence on others. But I know that I absolutely have three things in common with every person on the planet.  

God created everyone. Jesus came for everyone. The Holy Spirit was meant for everyone.

These are powerful influences that empower me to be a friend to everyone in my community. 

Jesus is a friend of sinners.  He is for everyone, and he never misses an opportunity to call to those who don’t yet know him.  And if I’m to follow his example, that means being an example to others of one who is answering his call.

Jesus is for everyone.  Are there relationships that have lapsed for you because of a focus on differences? What difference would it make in our neighborhood if we lead with a foundation in Jesus? By our words and actions, we can act conduit for Jesus to call to others!