Mark 2: Jesus Loves Sinners

Simply put, Jesus loves sinners. Interestingly, the religious people of his day questioned why Jesus would hang out with such people. Jesus politely answered, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” What he didn’t say was that at least the so-called sinners he hung out with were teachable; the religious leaders often were not.

In a world where Jesus is often associated with a political party, it’s refreshing to see our Lord willing to share a meal with people of all backgrounds, sharing his love and message in the process. As (I think) Lucado has so eloquently written, “Jesus loves you just the way you are, but he refuses to leave you that way.”

Jesus spent significant time with people not like him who lived immoral lives so he could help some of them become his followers. It only makes sense he would call us to do the same. I grow very convicted because it’s much easier to stay in Christian suburbia (metaphorically speaking) rather than step out and have lunch with an agnostic or Buddhist to simply show respect while talking about what I believe.

But Jesus never called me (or any his followers) to an easy life. He has called us to share what we have been given; unconditional love, a transforming message, and a Savior who can provide eternal life.

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Dillon Burroughs has written, co-written, or edited over 60 books, including the upcoming devotional work Thirst No More (October 2011). He served as an associate editor for The Apologetics Study Bible for Students and is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary. Find out more at DillonBurroughs.org.