Grace for Both Sides

Scripture:
Matthew 9:12-13 - "But when He heard this, He said, 'Those who are well don’t need a doctor, but the sick do. Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy and not sacrifice. For I didn’t come to call the righteous, but sinners.'"

Devotional:
When Jesus called Matthew, He didn’t just call him out of his old life; He invited him into a new community. Shortly after his calling, Matthew hosted a meal at his house, inviting other tax collectors and sinners to dine with Jesus. This act drew criticism from the Pharisees, who couldn’t understand why Jesus would associate with people they deemed unworthy.
Jesus' response is profound: "Those who are well don’t need a doctor, but the sick do." He was clear that His mission was to reach those who recognized their need for Him. This statement should challenge us, especially in how we view those who are different from us. Just as Jesus reached out to both Matthew the tax collector and Simon the Zealot, we are called to extend grace to everyone, regardless of their background, status, or political beliefs.
The reality is, we are all in need of the "Doctor"—Jesus. Whether we see ourselves as righteous or sinful, we all have areas in our lives where we fall short and need His healing and forgiveness. The Pharisees missed this point because they believed they were righteous on their own. But Jesus came for those who knew they needed Him, and that includes all of us.

Reflection Questions:
 1. How do you respond to people you disagree with, especially those whose lifestyles or beliefs differ from yours?

 1. What areas in your life do you need to recognize as needing healing from the "Doctor"—Jesus?

 1. How can you extend grace to others in the same way Jesus extended grace to Matthew?

Application:
Take time this week to reach out to someone who is different from you, whether politically, socially, or culturally. Look for ways to extend grace and kindness, even in your differences. Ask God to help you see them through His eyes, as someone He loves and desires to heal.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, help me to extend grace to those around me, especially to those who are different from me. Thank You for being the "Doctor" who heals us, even when we are far from perfect. Teach me to love others as You do, and to show them Your mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.