Lion + LambSýnishorn

Prayer: Father, convict me of my prideful judgment and personal failure. Bring my sin into the light so that my need for Your healing and forgiveness is inescapable. Thank You for your mercy, which is new every day and is freely given by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Fix my attention and affection upon You today.

The Lamb’s Mercy

Conflict is hard. Our disagreements can often cause divisions if they are not handled in a correct and healthy manner. Many times, the greatest hurdle to healthy conflict resolution stems from an inability for either side to admit fault. We find ourselves quick in judging the mistakes of others while justifying our own.

When Jesus chose to associate with Matthew the tax collector, there was probably a collective gasp in the crowd. How could this holy teacher bring that corrupt agent into his community of followers? Why would this miracle-worker share a meal with those criminals who profit from the exploitation of the Jewish nation? What is Jesus doing, spending time with such sinners?

Until we understand our own need for the unconditional love and forgiveness of God, we will always struggle to extend that same love and forgiveness to others. The Pharisees were so focused upon their commitment to religious ritual and tradition that they had become effectively blinded to their own sin. Accepting the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ begins with acknowledging the consequences of sin in our lives. Do we have the courage to confess our need for Christ?

Look in the Word: 

1. Look at Matthew 9:9-11. Who would Jesus have to join for dinner in order for you to be completely shocked? Who do you think of as “outside” the salvific mission of Christ?
2. Look at Matthew 9:12-13. What are the differences between the attitude of Jesus and the attitude of the Pharisees? How do those attitudes affect their actions?
3. Jesus quotes Hosea 6:6 in his response to the Pharisees. Read Matthew 23:23-28 to see another response against the hypocrisy of heartless religion. 

What’s Next?

1. Ask the Lord to convict you of sin that you have failed to confess.
2. Write out some of the sins you have committed and trust that God is faithful to forgive all our failure through the saving sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
3. Thank God for his consistent compassion and overwhelming grace. Ask for a softened heart that is listening to his Spirit and following his lead.