Associate with Sinners

Lady of Light

First of all, since the bible says that "All have sinned and come short of the Glory of God (Romans 5:23) it would be difficult not to associate with sinners because that includes everyone! But what I want to say is that in the book of Luke, Chapter 15 1-2, it tells us that "Then drew hear unto him (Jesus) all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, "This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.

It is easy for us to have our own righteousness and our own set of social values about who we will associate with, and who we will be seen with but we need to take a lesson from Jesus and relate to people from all walks of life. Did you ever buy a beggar or a homeless person a cup of coffee? Did you ever stop and witness to or share concerns with some of these people? We can learn valuable lessons from others and must know that we make a difference in the lives of others.

One day I was outside of Dunkin Donuts with my husband. We met a man who had been living with a cousin who was evicted and suddenly became homeless. He had never been in the situation and didn't know where to turn. He had spent the night sleeping in the lobby of a bank where the ATM machine was and now was looking to get some money for something to eat. He was a young man in his late 20's. I thought of my own children, silently thanking God that they had a roof over their heads and jobs.
We talked to him about social service resources, places to live and gave him money to get some food. He left feeling hopeful and uplifted. It takes a bit of time and a bit of courage to reach out to others but it is definately worth the effort. Jesus took the time to sit with and eat with sinners.

Today, as you go about, look for opportunities to bless others and to reach out to others like Jesus didn.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light