Although it was a serious sin for a Jew to be a tax collector, Levi chose to be one. Jesus called Levi out of his sinful job and into being an apostle and missionary. If we repent, we can follow Jesus' call even if we are damaged goods, for Jesus comes not for the healthy but for the sick, not for the righteous but for sinners (Mk 2:17). Jesus is a merciful High Priest Who will "sympathize with our weakness" (Heb 2:17; 4:15). He did not come to condemn but to save (Jn 3:17). Even if everyone else rejects us, Jesus will never reject us (Jn 6:37).
There is hope for the human race because of Jesus' mercy – and only because of His mercy. No matter how low we've been, Jesus will take us to heights where we alone could never go. Jesus loves the unlovable. Trust in Jesus. "So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and favor and to find help in time of need" (Heb 4:16).
| PRAYER: | Father, give mercy to me and through me. |
| PROMISE: | "Indeed, God's Word is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword. It penetrates and divides soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the reflections and thoughts of the heart." –Heb 4:12 |
| PRAISE: | Julia did not receive love from her family, but she did find love in Jesus' family and in joining a home based community. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College