Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Luke 15:1-2

That’s us fellow Christian. We’re the tax collectors and sinners. We’re the lowest of the low that Jesus came to save. We’re not the all knowing Pharisees or teachers of the law. We are sinners.

I hate to admit that sometimes I’m embarassed to call myself a Christian. I’m not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, but I am embarrassed when Christians judge like Pharisees. I don’t have to listen very long to hear us unilaterally dismiss groups of people by race, religion, sexual preference, or lifestyle. That’s not how it’s supposed to work.

Then Levi held a great banquet for Jesus at his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were eating with them. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to his disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus answered them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” Luke 5:29-31

That’s me. I’m the sinner. I’m the lost sheep. I’m the sick person in need of a savior. So before we profess to have this whole God-thing figured out, let’s not forget who we are.

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

I’m Forgiven and Free and putting away my gavel