EVEN WHEN IT’S UNCOMFORTABLE
Wow This is quite a question for the disciples to answer. I think we often read these verses and think Jesus is talking about someone else … NOT us. But he is talking about everyone. What does that mean for you and me? I know it often makes me feel uncomfortable being around people who are very different from me, whether it is their social standing, their appearance or their background.
Last spring I took a class called Wichita-Sedgwick County Citizen Police Academy. We toured the Sedgwick County jail and had dinner there. We did not eat with the prisoners, but we experienced their food and their “fine china.” We learned about the daily life of a prisoner. It is not the Marriott, let me assure you. I felt very uncomfortable. But Jesus eats with these people, and doesn’t he call us to also? Isn’t everyone welcome at Jesus’ table? Since we are to follow him, how can we “eat with tax collectors and sinners?”
I admit that I struggle with this. But there are many things we can do. We can visit those in jail, and some are called to this ministry (but probably not me). We can help provide food for homeless people at the community breakfast. We can become a Big Brother or Big Sister to a child who lives a completely different lifestyle. We can tutor someone who can’t speak English. We can welcome neighbors of all backgrounds and appreciate the differences they bring to our communities. It’s not easy, but Jesus didn’t promise it would be easy to follow him. He set an example for us to follow. And when we do, we will find his strength and his peace.
Teacher, help us to follow you in welcoming all your children. When it is difficult, help us and allow us to be examples to others who may not yet have heard your message. During this Lenten season, may we make a special effort to “welcome tax collectors and sinners” to your table. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
