Prepare for Sunday

September 6th, 2026

Ponder

This week we are going to revisit a very foundational text for the life of Hope.

9 As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, “Follow me,” and he got up and followed him.

10 While he was reclining at the table in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came to eat with Jesus and his disciples. 11 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?”

12 Now when he heard this, he said, “It is not those who are well who need a doctor, but those who are sick. 13 Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy and not sacrifice., For I didn’t come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Christian Standard Bible (opens in new window) (Mt 9:9–13). (2020). Holman Bible Publishers.

Matthew's salvation leads to simple and purposeful invitation. Following Jesus does not have to be extravagant. We don't have to overthink it. It can look like cooking a meal and inviting all your friends. Jesus is happy to dine with us, and meals are where many people meet him. If we have a table, or can find one, we can do the same.