Has the modern day church become like the Pharasees of Jesus’ time?  It’s sad to think of this happening, but in most organized religions it has.  We become so wrapped up in the law of God’s Word and traditions of days gone by, that we sometimes  forget what God’s purpose is for His children.  To be healed and forgiven from the grip of sin.

When Jesus gave the Great Commission to His disciples, He didn’t tell them to be selective.  In fact He spent time with those who needed Him most.  If He had been like the teachers of His time, He would insist on following the letter of the law to a T.  There would be no prostitutes – no tax collectors – no Samaritans – no thieves, liars, politicians or sinners of any kind.  In other words, the church would be empty.

It’s easy to look at this group of religious leaders of Jesus’ time and make judgment, but we often do the same thing when we react to how people dress, how they act, sing, pray, whatever.  The body of the church is made up of sinners.  We’re all guilty of not following God’s commandments.  We’ve fallen short of what’s expected of us.  We make mistakes, we lie, we judge, we gossip, we use God’s name in the wrong way, we don’t serve others, we don’t live the life that Jesus led during His time on earth.   The first step towards redemption is knowing our need for a Savior.

Lord, I know that I am unworthy of the grace you’ve so freely given.  It’s – your love poured out for everyone who realize they need it.  Help me to remember that I have an obligation to share that wonderful news.  You loved me first, now let me pass that gift on.  Amen!