Pastor’s sermon is based on the gospel reading from Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26. Jesus calls us to be merciful and to love the unlovable. In our Gospel lesson today, Jesus calls a hated tax collector to follow him. He also risks impurity in ministering to a woman who has been bleeding for twelve (12) years. Jesus then doesn’t give up on a girl, already counted as dead, to come alive with his touch. God’s love in Jesus Christ does NOT give up on people!! God’s mercy doesn’t run away from suffering, but rather embraces it and transforms it. Answering the call of Jesus is a commitment to love our neighbor, especially in the midst of their suffering. Amen.
