On the Feast of St. Matthew, we hear how Jesus sees a despised tax collector, speaks “Follow me,” and creates a whole new allegiance by grace. From the booth no one wanted to sit in, Matthew is brought to a table no one expected to share, where “tax collectors and sinners” recline with Jesus.

Jesus answers the Pharisees’ objections with Hosea’s word, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice,” and with His mission: not to affirm the already-arrived, but to call sinners. He is the Good Physician for the truly sick, who brings us from hiding to hope, from self-justifying rituals to His mercy that seats us together.

Key Takeaways:

• Jesus initiates the call; sinners don’t find Him—He finds us.
• Grace raises us from our “tax booths” and leaves sin behind to follow Jesus.
• Christ’s mercy seats unlikely people together at His table of grace.
• God desires mercy from hearts He has forgiven, not performance religion.
• The Good Physician came to call sinners; bring Him your need.

Scripture References:

1. Matthew 9:9–13 — Jesus calls Matthew, dines with “tax collectors and sinners,” and declares, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice,” revealing His heart for the lost and His authority to call.
2. Hosea 6:6 — The Lord desires steadfast love and mercy, not bare sacrifice; rituals serve love, not the other way around.
3. Hebrews 9:22 (alluded to) — Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness; Christ’s blood fulfills what sacrifices pointed to.
4. Romans 6:23 (alluded to) — The wages of sin is death, but God gives life in Christ.
5. Luke 19:10 (alluded to) — The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

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