Monday 22 September 2008

Background

In Matthew's call, and the meal that follows, Jesus uses acommon proverb to respond to his critics - 'the sick need adoctor'. He then quotes the prophet Hosea (6:6) "I desire steadfastlove and not sacrifice".

The Pharisees were known for their careful keeping of the Law ofMoses and so were scandalised that Jesus was dirtying himself (intheir view) by eating with those who had put themselves outside ofthe Covenant (Jews who were seen to be betraying their 'own'). Butthey were not just being snobbish or holier-than-thou. Taxcollectors like Matthew were despised for being corrupt and theagents of Roman law. They often made their living out of exploitingtheir neighbours on behalf of the foreign rulers.

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus again and again offends the religiousleaders - the scribes and Pharisees. They do not necessarily startout against him but become very disturbed by his behaviour. It isnot what they expect from a rabbi or prophet who should knowbetter! And some had such high hopes for him. Why would he throw itall away on these unacceptable people? The energy the Phariseesgave to confronting Jesus shows how seriously they took hispresence and teaching. If he were not one of them, what would itmatter what he did?

Christians believe that encounters with Jesus changed people. Thatgoes as much for tax collectors as for Pharisees, yet not everyoneat the dinner in Matthew 9 was changed. Jesus crossed boundaries tomake an invitation, not a mandate - "Go and learn what this means,'I desire mercy, not sacrifice'".

To Ponder

In the story, who are 'the sick' and who are 'thewell'?

It has been said that theology is like a swimmingpool - all the splashing is at the shallow end. How true is thisfor you?