December 31, 2018 -- Matthew 11:19 -- Jesus Friend of Sinner

The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”

Matthew 11:19 ESV

Jesus Friend of Sinners. What a precious name this is for those of us who know the depths of our sinfulness and the ever greater height, width, depth, and breadth of His grace. Those who meet Jesus and are His friends die to their sins and with Jesus rise to newness of life.

"The friend in my adversity I shall always cherish most. I can better trust those who helped to relieve the gloom of my dark hours than those who are so ready to enjoy with me the sunshine of my prosperity." Ulysses S. Grant

Jesus, thank You for befriending me, lost sinner though I was.

Jesus, thank You for sticking closer than a brother through trials.

Jesus, thank You for giving me Your Spirit so that I am instructed in the Word of life.

Jesus, thank You for the promise that all who believe in You are children of the Father in heaven.

Amen.