Our Scripture reading today is Luke 15:1-2, "Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them."
The strong teaching and preaching from Luke 14 did not drive away the publicans and sinners. It is clear from the beginning of this chapter that it actually drew them to Him. Jesus teaching was strong but it was also given with the highest level of compassion. They knew there was something different about this teacher. Jesus impacted everyone in one way or another. Sadly, the religious crowd did not respond as well as the "sinners". These Pharisees and scribes were just as much sinners as the publicans. Over and over again, their foolish pride would be their downfall.
It would do us all some good to thank the Lord today for rescuing us from our sin and shame. We were unworthy sinners deserving of judgment when God compassionately drew us to Himself. The Creator God loved us first. When we were unlovely, He loved us. When we are STILL unlovely, He loves us. It is this kind of love we should seek to spread to others who are in the same "boat" as we once were. Be on the lookout today for someone you can give hope to by pointing them to the Saviour!