Daily Devotions
It’s strange how relaxed Jesus is in Levi’s house. There He is, reclining at the table, leaning comfortably on one elbow as people did in those days at special meals. Around Him are all the riffraff of the neighborhood—other tax collectors, prostitutes, cheaters, liars, men and women of bad reputation. And Jesus in the middle, talking, listening—as if He actually enjoyed being there, with those people. No wonder the religious leaders were shocked!
I have to admit, it shocks me a bit, too. Not that He would spend time with Levi’s guests, but that He would spend time with me—draw close to me—treat me as someone worth talking and listening to. I know what I am. Why come close to me?
And yet Jesus does. He comes close to me and to you, close enough to touch—close enough to save us. He doesn’t hesitate. We are the people He wants to be with, the ones He invites to His own table—the ones He lays down His life for. Why? It can only be love.
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, since You choose to love me, help me to love You back. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* Are there people you were taught to consider “not our kind of people”?
* Would you be comfortable or not with Jesus coming close to you?
* To Jesus, you are “His kind of people.” What does that mean to you?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.