Listen to Devotion

Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”

What were you like in high school? Were you in the marching band as part of the halftime show, or were you the one scoring touchdowns underneath the Friday night lights? Did you sing in the chorus or act on stage? Did you ace every test and quiz or just get by? Were you one of the “cool” kids or were you a “nerd”?

I have taught high school kids. I have three teenagers myself. And, as much as they can’t fathom it, Dad was a high school kid once upon a time, too! I get it. High school can be hard. Sometimes, two best friends will end their friendship because one starts dating the other’s ex. Sometimes, that one queen bee can lead, and others will follow, not wanting to make waves because they don’t want to be ousted from the group. I’ve seen it. You have too. You were there in high school.

But with Jesus, all are welcome. Yes, he wants 4.0 brainiacs, but he also wants the kids who got detention every week. Yes, he wants the pretty prom queen, but he also wants the girl who didn’t get asked to the dance. Yes, he wants the family who faithfully shows up for church every Sunday, but he also wants the ones who don’t. My point is that ALL are welcome with Jesus, and all includes YOU! Jesus doesn’t discriminate. Jesus doesn’t exclude. Jesus doesn’t care about your looks, your humor, your athletic ability, or your I.Q. He loved YOU so much that he was willing to give up his life to get you right with God, and that love wasn’t conditional on anything about you. He simply gives it to you and welcomes you into not just a friend group but into the family of God.

No matter who you are, you’re welcome with Jesus!

Dear Jesus, thank you for taking away my sins and welcoming me into your family. Help me to reach out to those around me who feel like they don’t have anyone and let me welcome them as you have welcomed me. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.