Calling of Levi

I’ve read the story of Levi’s calling (Mark 2:13-17) many times before. Often, when discussing this passage, it’s often talked about as an example for how the church should be: we should care more for investing in those who don’t know Jesus than the church folk.

That’s a great sentiment, but I wonder if we are only getting half of the story. Jesus ate and spent time with those who would be considered unclean and sinners. He didn’t separate himself from those who weren’t holy. And he didn’t ask his followers to cut themselves off from others.

This could probably apply more to us as individual Christians then to the church. I see a lot of this attitude of pulling away from all things and people that aren’t Chrisitians like us. Most of the time it’s in the name of being more holy (which we are called to be, by the way).

I even see that in myself to a certain degree. I work at church. Almost all of the relationships in my life are with other Christians. And I’m rather comfortable with that, unfortunately. Yet, I know something is missing in maintaining that kind of life.

It’s the most clear to me when I have the opportunity to reconnect with an old high school friend over coffee and talk about life. Even though I may not be sharing about Jesus directly, I feel so much more alive, like I’m doing exactly what I was created for. I know my faith was intended to be something more than just living with other Christians.

This is more a personal reflection than a devotional, but that’s ok. Read Mark 2:13-17 and ponder the passage for yourself.