We have rid our culture of so much religion that we can miss the principles Jesus is teaching because the context has changed-
“Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’
Matthew 9:12
We don’t offer sacrifices and we have a culture that is learning to receive everyone. So, it looks like, job done. However, looking at the principle that follows, I see a challenge.
For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.”
Matthew 9:13
In our time people excuse themselves of anything. Behaviour is explained away by a painful past or challenging circumstances. People may not think of themselves as righteous but struggle to accept an identity of sinner.
So, here Jesus offers mercy and we are so self-satisfied that we can look at the mess we are creating and say we need help or counselling or anything but forgiveness and mercy. Only when we are willing to take responsibility for our actions will we recognise that what we have done is so bad Jesus had to die for it. Only then can we accept the need of Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins and receive his mercy.