Read Matthew 9: http://bible.oremus.org/?ql=481250547
Scripture: v. Matthew 9:13 ‘But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Observation: Jesus refers to Hosea 6:6 in responding to the Pharisees’ criticism. One of the greatest sacrifices we can make to the Lord is our pride and our ego. Sacrificing our pride, opens the door to forgiveness, which in turn, opens the window to heaven.
Application: I desire to have more compassion for my neighbor, and less judgment of others. I am a sinner like any other. All of us are in need of God’s grace.
Prayer: Lord, increase my capacity for forgiveness and love of my neighbor. Forgive our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.