Consider the beautiful account of Jesus dining with tax

[Mary Naeem]

Consider the beautiful account of Jesus dining with tax collectors and sinners at the house of Matthew (Matthew 9:10-13). When questioned about this, our Lord responded with words that should echo in our hearts: “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Mathew, 2022)

We see Jesus’ mercy shine forth in His encounter with the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11). While others sought to condemn her, Christ offered forgiveness and a call to new life, saying “Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin.” This demonstrates the delicate balance of grace and truth that we are called to emulate.

Perhaps one of the most touching examples is Jesus’ interaction with Zacchaeus, the tax collector (Luke 19:1-10). By choosing to stay at Zacchaeus’ house, our Lord showed that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love. This act of inclusion led to Zacchaeus’ transformation and repentance.

Throughout the Gospels, we see that Jesus did not shy away from sinners, but actively sought them out. He ate with them, spoke with them, touched them, and showed them the face of God’s love. At the same time, He never condoned sin, but always called people to repentance and new life.

These accounts remind us that our mission as followers of Christ is not to judge or condemn, but to love as He loved. We are called to be bearers of God’s mercy, extending the hand of friendship to all, while always pointing towards the transformative power of God’s grace.