Words of Hope Daily Devotional
A Glutton and Friend of Sinners
Read: Luke 7:24-35
The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, “Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!” (v. 34)
It was the worst thing they could say about him. The Pharisees, threatened by the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus, looked to find fault wherever they could. They decided that John had “a demon” (v. 33). But Jesus? The worst thing they could say was that he was welcomed and beloved by sinful people—“a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!” (v. 34).
Jesus knew what they thought, but instead of denying it, he confirmed that “the Son of Man has come eating and drinking” (v. 34). Sharing a meal with others is a very human act—not only to meet physical necessities for food and drink, but also meeting the need for fellowship, social interaction and conversation. Those who had dinner with Jesus experienced the ways in which the Savior identified with sinners in their humanity. He understood their weakness and need; some of his most compassionate interactions with others occurred during these meals. These were also times when he strongly rebuked those who were self-righteous and showed them their own need for a Savior. And there was often sweet “table fellowship” with his friends as Jesus prepared them for the future when his earthly days came to a close.
For the next two weeks, pull up a chair to the table. It’s time for dinner with Jesus!
As you pray, ask God for the appetite to spend time with Jesus.
About the Author
Laura Sweet
Laura N. Sweet is a wife, mother, grandmother, and former Christian school teacher from Midland, Michigan. She writes devotional material for both adults and children, and her work has appeared in more than a dozen publications.
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