Sealing the Deal 15 February 2008

Mark 2:13-22
Friday, 15 February 2008

Is it just me or is food really important to what it means to be human? I don't say this just because we are 10 days into Lent and I am continually aware of what I eat and don't eat. The reality is that we know a lot about a person or a group by observing what, how, and with whom they eat. Eating together creates a kind of intimacy that makes getting to know someone easier (as in a date)and that caps off a celebration (as in a banquet). We also frequently use a shared meal to facilitate and even seal business deals and partnerships.

Every time I read the Gospel of Mark I am struck anew by the pace of Jesus' activities. From setting to setting, town to town, healing to healing, Jesus and those who follow him are swept up in a stream of activity that culminates in the Passion narrative. In today's reading, Jesus has been teaching by the lake and observes a tax collector at work. Although tax collectors were universally despised, Jesus offers an invitation. "Follow me." Levi immediately responds. The next scene finds Jesus at Levi's house. It turns out that Levi is not unique in the band of disciples. The dining room is filled with tax collectors and other "sinners." Righteous indignation arises in the scrutiny of the scribes. They know what we all know, that dining together solidifies bonds and enhances fellowship. They saw the scene for what it was; Jesus was indeed sealing the deal with the most despised in the community. "I have come to call not the righteous but sinners."

Whenever we encounter the Pharisees or their associates in a text, we church people ought to see them as a mirror of ourselves. Although in truth we are no better than the vilest sinner, we often employ a calculus that justifies us and condemns others. How blessed we would be by simply rejoicing that Christ in mercy abides with us and shares table fellowship without critiquing Christ's other dinner companions.

Sing "Pass Me not O Gentle Savior"

Pray Psalm 51