Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.
Today's Gospel: Luke 5:27-32
I confess that, as a mother, it can be easy to sympathize with the love of order that the Pharisees hold in their heart. There is a way of doing things in this ancient Jewish rule, a structure and routine that allows for minimal scrapes and bruises, lack of chaos, and ability to function. I, too, am guilty of focusing on the rules and convincing myself that order is always the loving action.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus shows us a deeper way to love. When the Pharisees ask Jesus, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” we need to understand the fear behind the question. It is not simply a matter of hatred of another person. The Pharisees fear that they will become unclean, that their lives will become out of order, and that it is best to never associate with the mess rather than transform it through love. Rules are safe, but they are not always where Christ dwells.
Where does this tension exist in our lives? Perhaps there’s a friend you wish your child would not play with because of their possible influence, or a community event you shield your children from. Is there a neighbor you avoid or even a family member because their lives seem too unstable?
Jesus calls us from fear into evangelizing the world around us, and that work requires breaking routines and embracing the unconventional.
Ponder:
Who do I need to "eat and drink with" today to embrace Christ's message of evangelizing love?
Pray:
Loving God, grant my heart courage on this day to see those whom I encounter with love. Cast out any fear I may have and open my arms towards those You wish to invite into my life.
Copyright 2025 Megan Cottam
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