The little phrase “complained bitterly” is used to describe how majorly ticked off the self-righteous guys of the day were at Jesus. It seems He had really over-stepped the norms of society when He not only made friends with a lowly tax collector, but also accepted his invitation to a party. We can almost hear Dr. Luke mutter with aggravation in 5:17 that these religious Pharisees seemed to show up everywhere Jesus went. You know the type.
You can’t do anything without them getting their robes in a bunch.
Levi was just minding his own business, taking up taxes for the hated Romans, and trying to make a living. Sure he was skimming off the top, charging a little extra as needed in order to live the life he was accustomed. Everybody knows that.
Then Jesus came along with an invitation to… get this… become His disciple.
“Who… me?!”
Can’t you picture Levi looking around to see if maybe Jesus was talking to someone else? But He wasn’t! Lo and behold, Levi left everything and followed! In fact, he was so happy about his change in occupation that he threw a party. All his fellow notorious tax collecting friends came. And that’s when the bitter complaining started! [See Luke 6:30]
Even though the Pharisees griped at the disciples, Jesus answered their complaints.
I like it.
I like that I don’t have to take up for myself, explain my actions, or manage my image.
I like that when I am following close to the Lord, He will handle the criticism.
In fact, I think Jesus loves a good party. He invites all the people who’ve been written off as scum. Folks like Levi, and Mary Magdalene, and me.
Hey Jesus! Count me in!
Good one, Lynna!
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Thanks Carolyn!
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Love it!!!
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