Luke 5:27-32 Jesus calls Levi and eats with sinners
REFLECTION
What is sin?
In our modern age it is difficult to understand the concept of sin. Many believe that if my behaviour is not hurting anyone, I can do what I like. A self-gratifying, self-enriching, self-serving attitude seems to prevail. In modern parlance we might use the words crime, offense, scandal or transgression as synonyms for sin. This however is more to do with civil law. Sin implies a transgression of moral law which is interpreted by different faith communities in a variety of ways. Sin though at the time of Jesus was both a moral and a civil transgression. There was no separation between secular and religious life. This is true today in Islamic states living under Sharia Law. To fall foul of the religious laws drew severe repercussions. Tax collectors were considered as traitors working for the Romans. As collaborators they were despised. They were also corrupt, enriching themselves by overcharging. Tax collectors would not have been able to participate in worship. The Temple Treasury barred them from exchanging their money. They were considered on a par with murderers and robbers and a disgrace to their families.
They may have been wealthy, but their circle of friends would have been limited to other sinners as no self-respecting Jew would associate with them. They too might be considered sinners by association. Of course, some tax collectors may have felt their wealth was enough compensation for their alienation but for others we see a profound change when they are accepted by Jesus. Both Zacchaeus and Levi turned their lives around. Zacchaeus giving back fourfold what he had stolen which was the amount demanded for dishonesty. Levi was asked to become one of the inner circle of disciples. What a turnaround for him. Naturally, he wanted to celebrate this amazing circumstance in his life. His only friends were other sinners and he wanted them to know this wonderful teacher who accepted him for who he was. Jesus associated with sinners to bring them forgiveness. He didn’t just preach at them but sat down and took time to get to know them. Who they were and what circumstances had brought them to this state. He listened without judgement and by this acceptance without prejudice sinners were converted and gave up their former ways of life. He gave these people value in a society who thought they were worthless. Who wouldn’t change.
QUESTIONS
- Where have you witnessed people being ostracised because of what others consider sinful?
- How important do you think it is for a faith community to be totally inclusive?
- Are there certain criteria which you believe should prohibit membership?
- Have you ever been wary of associating with certain groups of people? If so, why?
