Friday 4th of July
“It is not the healthy who need the doctor, but the sick.”
Matthew 9: 9-13
Jesus reflected the merciful love of the Father to all, but especially to those who are sinners. After Jesus calls Matthew (a sinner), Jesus joins him at the table with other tax collectors, other sinners and his disciples. The Pharisees question why he eats with sinners. Jesus replies that he “did not come to call the righteous but sinners”. “Healthy people do not need a physician, but sick people do”. It is sad at times when a person resists to see a doctor although they have some suspicion, they are sick.
In our spiritual life, we can be resistant to turning to Jesus, the doctor and healer of our Spirit. Could it be out of fear, too? The Pharisees were judgmental of sinners. Perhaps they did not “see” their own need for healing or grace. What attitude do we have toward ourselves and others? Are we judgmental of others and esteem ourselves better than others? (righteous) Or do we have a humble attitude of a person in need of healing and grace, like a sinner? How do we go to Jesus: with trust and confidence or fear?