For Those in Need

Then it happened that as Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were dining with Jesus and His disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, "Why is your Teacher eating with the tax collectors and sinners?" But when Jesus heard this, He said, "It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. Matthew 9:10-12 (New American Standard Bible)

It is interesting to see the different aspects and responses of the individuals mentioned in this passage. Tax collectors and sinners were drawn to Jesus and Jesus welcomed them. The Pharisees viewed them and Jesus with condemnation and disgust. Jesus spoke the truth. He came for those who needed Him. Everyone needs Him but not everyone sees their need of Him. Those who see their need come to Him. Those who do not see their need of Him remain at a distance. How we view our condition will determine which direction we will head.

There are two steps necessary to find help and healing for our areas of weakness as well as forgiveness for our sins. The first step is seeing the truth about ourselves and the second step is seeing the truth about God’s view of us. I have spent most of my Christian life attempting to put my best foot forward in hopes that failures and weaknesses would not be noticed. Admitting there was a problem was hard to do. I had hopes that within time things would just improve. What I didn’t realize was that anything I keep “hidden” keeps me in bondage.

God had to help me see that I was like the person coming to a support group not wanting to admit where I needed help. Thinking He wanted perfection made me want to deny my imperfections because of shame, embarrassment, and pride. More than outward sins it was the sins of my heart, hidden agendas, and buried motives that chained my soul. Yet, I struggled to openly and honestly come to the One who possessed the keys to freedom. I tried to play make believe and dress up with the One who not only created me but knew me thoroughly and loved me unconditionally.

His answer? “Come to Me.” When I see my imperfections. “Come to Me.” When I see my addictions. “Come to Me.” When I see that I am not what I should be or even what I want to be. “Come to Me.” When the worst of me has the best of me. “Come to Me.” In essence what He is saying is, “Be among the tax collectors and sinners rather than among the Pharisees. Dine with me rather than remain aloof.” I am learning to find my seat at His table.

Father, with You I am free to be me. Free to see the truth. Free to admit the truth. Free to be set free by the truth. Amen.

It Wasn't Easy - Cece Winans
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVT9_ulYv2k&feature=related#sf

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.