“But when the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with tax collectors and other sinners, they asked his disciples, “Why does he eat with such scum?”
17 When Jesus heard this, he told them, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.”” Mark 2:16,17 New Living Translation
Jehovah Rapha, The Lord who heals,
This was one of Your names in the old testament. When You made the bitter water at Marah safe to drink (Exodus 15:26). They still grumbled all the rest of the way across the promised land. Help us pray first . . . maybe a little grumble later? No! We will look to You, sorry Lord.
Here, in the verses from Mark, Jesus shows how religious people can start to believe they are better than everyone else. Scum is the word used in a recent translation, sinners was used in the NIV. They, the Pharisees, believed they were better when actually they were the same. We are all sinners and are only made better, washed, healed because of Jesus. The Pharisees, the teachers of the law of Jesus day were supposed to be humbly calling people to You and to repentance. They had forgotten they had the same needs and were setting themselves up as judge and jury above others.
Jesus said their were two main commandments, to love God and love your neighbour as yourself! (Matthew 22:37,38). It is a work in progress Lord . . . not judging others.
We need to our own faults and failures first and bring them to You for healing. You are our remedy for sin. Some of those so called scum became disciples and built the family of God. Help us see with Your eyes. Realising how much we are loved and forgiven – help us to treat others and see them as You do.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer
Jehovah Rapha,
For family, friends, neighbours, to use words that heal, encourage and love even where difficult.
For our church families to welcome everyone and not be judgemental.
For HRH King Charles for healing and for HRH Kate as she recovers at home. To open a way to heal where family has broken down.
For the governments in the UK. England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
For Michelle O’Neill, N. Irelands first minister stepping up to all the new responsibilities.
For Your wisdom and peace in decisions made by the many international world Governments.
For Ukraine and Gaza permanent peace. Along with Myanmar, North Korea, Chine, Sudan, Syria and other countries where there is oppression and slavery and sickness.
For Your church here and round the world. That many would know the healing love of Jesus.
For the many hospitals planted by churches and missions. Offering medical healing along side Jesus.
For us, our good health in body, and by the indwelling of Your Holy Spirit and Your healing forgiveness.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Wednesday 7th February 2024
I just love this song. Written by John Pantry, who for many years was the morning presenter on Premier Christian Radio. Retired, he still does weekly programmes.
You don’t need the doctor
unless your feeling sick
You don’t need to join us
If You’ve got your problems licked
We’re a fellowship of sinners
A rough and ragged crew
But we’ve all got Jesus in us
And we’re learning what to do
We’ve been called professional beggars
A superstitious crowd
‘Cos we’ve all got religion and we shout the message loud
But we know where we’re going
And we know the one we love
For He satisfies and heals us
He has given us His love
One day we will meet Him
Then we will be changed
From this weary band of pilgrims
To the heirs that bear His name
Fear and pain will pass away
And there will be no war
Then the memories of our failures
Will hurt a man no more
And this church is not a building
NO this church has not a spire
It’s the men and the women
Who’ve got Jesus as their friend
Though we’re sinners we’re forgiven
Lift your voices higher.
John Pantry
CD: Simply the Best of John Pantry, ICC