Unlike so many of us who try to be loving and supportive to others, God never coddles our insecurities and weaknesses. He never says, “Bro, you got this. You’re amazing.”
Instead, He simply says, “I’m with you. I got this.”
Why? Because HE IS AMAZING!!!!
His PRESENCE is the guarantee. Not our person.
Jesus didn’t eat with sinners and tax collectors because He wanted to appear inclusive, tolerant, accepting, or approving. He didn’t do so for His own benefit, entertainment, and well-being.
He ate with them intentionally to graciously call them to repentance…to compassionately and mercifully offer them forgiveness and redemption FROM their sin, not acceptance OF their sin.
As image bearers and having been indwelt by HIS Spirit, we are called to do the same.
From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” – Matthew 4:17
Minimizing me...making much of Jesus 