A Meal With Jesus and Unexpected Guests
A place at the table can say, “You are welcome to come closer.” When Levi hosted a meal for Jesus, the people who gathered included others many religious observers preferred to keep at a distance.
I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
(Luke 5:32, NIV)
Luke tells us that Jesus called Levi from his tax booth. Levi left everything, followed Him, and hosted a great banquet. When Pharisees and teachers questioned why Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners, He explained His mission through the picture of a doctor caring for the sick. He had come to call sinners to repentance.
Offer a welcome that points toward Jesus
Jesus’ welcome had a direction. He invited people into a new life of following Him. Grace made room for the honest recognition that they needed His mercy.
Our hospitality can reflect that warmth. You might invite someone from church whom you have only greeted in passing, make room for a neighbor, or include a friend who is curious about faith. Ask about their life. Listen with interest. Share what you are learning about Jesus without putting on a performance.
The meal can be simple enough to repeat. A pot of soup, a few sandwiches, or coffee at the kitchen counter can create room for a meaningful conversation.
Let the welcome be real, and let your own need for Christ keep you humble at the table.
A prayer
Jesus, thank You for welcoming sinners and calling us to follow You. Shape our hospitality with Your grace, truth, and genuine love for the people around us. Amen.
Keep reading: What Is the Gospel? · A Prayer for a Friendship That Is Hurting.
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At the table with Jesus, grace calls us into a new life.
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