Perfection Isn’t Needed For Jesus’ Love

“Looking Up During Uncertain Times”

A Daily Devotional

Text:  Mark 2:14-17 International Children’s Bible

Scripture Reading: 

14 While he was walking beside the lake, he saw a tax collector named Levi son of Alphaeus. Levi was sitting in the tax office. Jesus said to him, “Follow me.” And Levi stood up and followed Jesus.

15 Later that day, Jesus ate at Levi’s house. There were many tax collectors and “sinners” eating there with Jesus and his followers. Many people like this followed Jesus. 16 The teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw Jesus eating with the tax collectors and “sinners.” They asked his followers, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?”

17 Jesus heard this and said to them, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor. It is the sick who need a doctor. I did not come to invite good people. I came to invite sinners.”

Reflection: 

Jesus chose to give his attention to those who needed it. It’s a good reminder that the people who come to church in search of God aren’t required to be perfect. It is important to seek assistance when we need help and in the same way it is important to help those who need help. It isn’t realistic to expect everyone to be perfect and only associate with people who are perfect. Let’s be real and embrace others where they are, just like Jesus did.

Prayer: 

Hi God! Thanks for the example of Jesus loving others, even if it wasn’t good for his public image. Help us to love others even when it may not be popular. Amen.

Focus for the Day: Perfection Isn’t Needed For Jesus’ Love

Author: Rachel Dudley, Director of Children’s Ministry