TODAY’S WORD: (MY MIDDLE NAME IS MATTHEW) Jesus Calls Levi: A Lesson in Mercy and Transformation

HIGH FIVE!

This passage in the New Testament of the Bible tells the story of Jesus calling Levi (also known as Matthew) to be his disciple. Levi was a tax collector, which in those times was often seen as a sinful and despised profession. Here’s a brief summary of the passage:

• Verse 27-28: Jesus sees Levi sitting at the tax booth and says, “Follow me.” Levi leaves everything behind, gets up, and follows Jesus.
• Verse 29: Levi hosts a great banquet for Jesus at his house, and many tax collectors and others were eating with them.
• Verse 30: The Pharisees and teachers of the law complain to Jesus’ disciples, asking why He eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners.
• Verse 31-32: Jesus responds by saying, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

The significance of this text lies in several key points:

1. Calling the Outcasts: Jesus’ choice of Levi, a tax collector, demonstrates His willingness to reach out to those who were marginalized and despised by society. This shows that Jesus’ message of salvation and redemption is available to everyone, regardless of their past actions or societal status.
2. Transformation and Repentance: Levi’s immediate response to leave everything and follow Jesus highlights the transformative power of Jesus’ call. It shows that true repentance involves a radical change in one’s life direction and priorities.
3. Grace and Mercy: By dining with tax collectors and sinners, Jesus embodies the concept of grace and mercy. He engages with those who are spiritually and morally “sick,” offering them the opportunity to be healed and forgiven.
4. Challenge to Religious Elitism: Jesus’ response to the Pharisees and teachers of the law challenges their self-righteous attitude. He emphasizes that His mission is to call sinners to repentance, not to affirm the self-perceived righteousness of the religious elite.

Overall, this passage underscores the inclusive and transformative nature of Jesus’ ministry, highlighting His compassion for the marginalized and His call for repentance and a new way of life.

THANKS BE TO GOD… why didn’t I sleep well last night???

I’m sorry to hear you didn’t sleep well. There are a variety of factors that can contribute to a restless night. Here are a few common culprits:

1. Stress and Anxiety: Worries or anxiety can keep your mind racing, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep.
2. Diet: Consuming caffeine, alcohol, or heavy meals close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep cycle.
3. Environment: Noise, light, temperature, or an uncomfortable bed can all affect sleep quality.
4. Sleep Schedule: Irregular sleep patterns or staying up too late can throw off your body’s internal clock.
5. Health Conditions: Issues like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or chronic pain can interfere with sleep.
6. Technology Use: Using electronic devices before bed can interfere with your body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

It might help to reflect on any recent changes or stressors in your life that could be affecting your sleep. If it continues to be a problem, you may want to consider speaking to a healthcare professional for personalized advice. In the meantime, establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and creating a comfortable sleep environment could make a big difference.

LET’S GO2 WORK…