Those Who Are Well Do Not Need A Physician (MT 9:9-13) by Paul Westendorf

04 Jul Those Who Are Well Do Not Need A Physician (MT 9:9-13) by Paul Westendorf

“…Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do.  Go and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice.  I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.” ~ Mt 9:9-13 (full readings)
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Paul’s Reflections:  It has been said that Jesus was/is our coach and with that these words from a song popped into my head “…put me in coach I’m ready to play…”  Please don’t misunderstand me, I’m not proud of being a sinner as I know the division that sin causes between me and the One Who laid down His life for me.  This gospel does fill me with hope and should you as well when we hear about God’s desire for mercy.  There are numerous other times in the bible where Jesus is meeting with those that are categorized less than honorable.  The clarity with which Jesus answers those who deem themselves righteous here “…Those who are not well do not need a physician, but the sick do…” should give us hope and direction.  Earlier in this verse it also mentions Jesus saying to Matthew “Follow me.”  We understand the meaning of “Follow me” as meaning to become Jesus’ disciple and follow His actions and teachings.  (JN 8: 6-11) is another example of Jesus giving us hope and as we desire to be His disciples, how to act.  He did not say the sin was ok by showing compassion and not condemning the person.  He did say “…go and sin no more.”  These examples of Jesus’ love and how to act give me great hope for all touched by Abortion and the path of lies and hopelessness it is.  As Jesus said “Follow me”, we are called to bring light and hope to this tragedy.  As Jesus said “I desire mercy, not sacrifice” we are called to show compassion and mercy.  We can do that through our prayers for:  the doctors, nurses, and other medical staff of abortion facilities; for our political leaders to pass Pro-Life legislation; for the mothers and fathers who have had and/or will seek an abortion.  By being at the abortion facilities and showing that you understand, that you care.  By speaking the truth, showing compassion and mercy, and God’s strength we will turn our culture back around. 
* Paul Westendorf is Membership Coordinator of the National LIFE Runners Team.  His is married to Jacquie and lives in Sioux Falls, SD.   Full bio.
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Faith Challenge:  Choose a different group each day and dedicate a portion of prayer time for them that their hearts and minds will open to the truth, and that the spirit will guide them to a path towards God.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, LifeNews, American Family, Vatican, Project Rachel..
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Our Prayers: Pray LIFE Runners Creed to End Abortion. Add Prayers. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, unceasingly. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.
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Feast Day: St. Maximinus of Trier
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Faith Quote:  “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” ~ 2 Timothy 1:7
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Through Christ our Lord,
Paul
Jer 1:5