Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Matthew the Tax Collector

    Today’s Reading:
  • Matthew 9:1-17
  • Psalm 10:16-18
Read Bible Passages Online

Matthew 9:1-17
Here we see Matthew, who is a despised tax collector, joins Jesus as his disciple.  I think it’s interesting to note how people were so amazed that Jesus associated himself with those they deemed the sinners. But aren’t those the most important type of people to try to save?

That stigma carries forth even today. Have you ever been too embarrassed to stay with a church because you knew people were looking down on you for your lifestyle or choices? I know I have. But we’re the people that need help! And no matter how well I try or think I’m living my life, I know I will always be a sinner, and never do I ever have the right to think I’m better (or holier) than you or anyone else. I’m sorry, I’m ranting, but I do really get upset with those who think that it’s their job to judge because they uphold a high moral standard. All I can say is, try not to judge. Everyone judges, everyone has opinions, but just remember that the only one with authority to judge another person's soul and intentions is the Lord Himself.

Psalm 10:16-18
Here the Lord is called upon to help the helpless and those in need, and to serve justice to the godless nations. You know, this scares me, because I feel that every day the United States slips further away from God-fearing nation it used to be.  What happened to the motto “In God We Trust”? I have a feeling that we won’t be allowed to have that as our motto for too much longer. It’s just a matter of time before someone sues the government to get that removed. Don’t get me wrong, I know there are many good people left in the States, but I can’t help but feel that it’s slipping away so quickly. I just hope we don’t become one of those “godless” nations that the Lord warrants destroying. 


Conclusion
Do you ever worry that there won’t be enough time to “fix” your life before you die, or before the Lord comes back? What would happen if you died today? Do you think the life you led would be satisfactory to the Lord? I highly doubt mine would, unless you get brownie points for good intentions and knowing your own flaws. Hopefully I have enough time on earth to address and change all I need and want to. At least I have gotten started. If you haven’t, I beg you to please start. Don’t wait. At some point tomorrow will be here, but you won’t. What will happen to you then?

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