THURSDAY

Luke 15:1-2

We generally like the idea of being open, welcoming, and inclusive—until we don’t. Indeed, there are things that we would not want to lend our support to. Jesus had rather pointed things to say to religious leaders at times, and he suggested that those who hurt the vulnerable might be better off with a millstone around their necks. He may have been a bit hyperbolic at times, but he was also clear that oppression and injustice were never okay. But Jesus was perhaps even better known for his willingness to have conversations with Pharisees and Roman officials on the one hand, and fishermen, tax collectors, lepers, and those who struggled with demonic forces, social stigmas, and moral failures on the other. While Jesus had little tolerance for people being mistreated, he had remarkable compassion towards those who struggled and often fell short, or who were made to feel that way. When God came to be with us, God came to be with all of us. All we need to be is receptive. Today’s passage reflects the reality that the world around us is often very critical of this, in extreme cases, even labeling compassion and empathy as somehow toxic. In the verses that follow, Jesus goes on to tell stories that illustrate God’s commitment to being with us–all of us. As you take a few moments to reflect on today’s passage, and if you wish, the stories that follow, consider the following:

• What do you think was behind the criticism that Jesus received for not only his willingness to be with people, but also his intentionality in doing so?

• Where do you find similar expressions of this (both the criticism and the willingness) today?

• How would you describe the way Jesus could be with people and genuinely communicate their value and his willingness to listen to–and even identify with–them, even as he fully embodied God’s character and the values of God’s kingdom?

• Can you think of some examples of Jesus doing this well in Scripture? Can you think of some examples of where you have seen this done in our world today?

• What is the picture of God you find emerging in this passage for today?

• Where are the growing edges in your own life when it comes to following where Jesus leads, and when it comes to the way we regard those around us?

Take a few moments to share with God in prayer what is on your heart as you reflect on today’s passage.