This week, we explore Matthew 9:9–13 and the powerful moment when Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him — and then shares a meal with sinners. Through this story, we see that Jesus’ greatest authority is not simply to fix our circumstances, but to forgive sins and give us a new identity. His compassion shows us that the kingdom of God is not for the self-sufficient, but for those who recognize their need for mercy.
What is one area of your life where you need to bring your deeper spiritual need to Jesus — and how might He be inviting you to extend mercy to someone around you this week?