Gleanings – The Company He Keeps
Matthew 9:9-17
“Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?”
Great question! Who hangs with those who take our money that others might it spend as they see fit or even give it away? Perhaps those who have no tax liability aren’t challenged by the company Jesus keeps but those who pay taxes, in all likelihood, are.
I am so glad I am not a tax collector. Unfortunately I am a sinner. Not so much these days in acts of commission am I sinning. But what I don’t do, the omissions, are epic. Try as I might I don’t love unconditionally (Ephesians 5). Some self-interest or self-preservation taints all my love. I don’t always make the best use of time in advancing the Kingdom (again Ephesians 5). Sometimes I grow weary of being rejected for my efforts.
Yep. I may not be breaking rules but I am failing to hit the mark (hamartia/sin).
Why does Jesus hang with me? With any of us? Fortunately because the non-sinners got it going on! We are the only ones who need help. So he makes the best use of his time and spends it with us. Sweet!