I WAS ONE

Today's reading: Luke 15-16

"Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such despicable people--even eating with them." Luke 15:1-2 NLT

The teachers and preachers and upholders of the Scriptures were put off by the kinds of people Jesus drew to His side and into His lessons.

They raised their eyebrows. 

They looked down their Jewish noses.

They whispered unkind comments to one another.

They looked with disgust upon the people most needing to hear His words.

They neglected putting forth their kindest smiles and warmest greetings.

I take their actions and attitudes very personally--as I was one of the sinners and 'less thans' that Jesus drew to His side.

You, were, too.

It's only when we remember that we were one of those, that we can push aside any feelings of being better than another.

It's only when we recall the scornful looks and ungodly attitudes of the Pharisees that we can check ourselves and our own feelings against Jesus'.

It's good to be reminded of who we were so we can boldly and obediently follow through on who He intends us to be.