HE LOVES THE UNLOVABLE

Although it was a serious sin for a Jew to be a tax collector, Levi chose to be one. Jesus called Levi out of his sinful job and into being an apostle and missionary. If we repent, we can follow Jesus' call even if we are damaged goods, for Jesus comes not for the healthy but for the sick, not for the righteous but for sinners (Mk 2:17). Jesus is a merciful High Priest (Heb 2:17) Who will "sympathize with our weaknesses" (Heb 4:15). He did not come to condemn but to save (Jn 3:17). Even if everyone else rejects us, Jesus will never reject us (Jn 6:37).

There is hope for the human race because of Jesus' mercy — and only because of His mercy. No matter how low we've been, Jesus will take us to heights where we alone could never go. Jesus loves the unlovable. Trust in Jesus. "So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help" (Heb 4:16).