Matthew 9: 9- 17  Sometimes we just can't understand what Jesus is doing.. it was the same back in His days on earth. He chose a tax collector to be His disciple.  He went home with him and sat at the table with other tax collectors and "sinners".. people rejected by the religious leaders.  They just couldn't understand...  

Jesus said, "It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. But go and learn what this means, 'I desire compassion and not sacrifice,' for I did not come to call the righteous but sinners." (vs 12-13)

The Pharisees did not show mercy or compassion towards anyone but themselves, especially not a tax-collector. They would not even show mercy to their own family members at times.  Jesus came to show the whole world what really matters.. As we come to know Him more and more we see that this is what He desires from each of us.. to be merciful and kind to those who need it the most.. 

John the Baptist's disciples came to Jesus with another question.. "Why do we and the Pharisees fast but Your disciples do not fast?"  Jesus gave them an answer that was probably not expected or understood.. "The attendants of the bridegroom cannot mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them, can they?"  Things were about to change and they needed to be ready to change too.  They wouldn't put a new patch on an old garment or new wine into an old wineskin. They needed a new perspective on what God was doing. The Bridegroom was right there in front of them.. and they were missing Him with questions about religious practices. 

Am I missing Jesus in the midst of my own questions?  Am I focused on the things I don't understand so much that I forget about what God really desires from me.. mercy and compassion.. and Jesus Himself?

Father, lead us into a deeper walk.. a deeper awareness and understanding of Your heart.. of Your desires for us today and every day. Fill us Spirit of God so that we can see Jesus and follow Him with all our hearts. Let Your love flow through us today we pray.. in Jesus' name. Amen.