Make A Difference: Devotions From Time Of GraceExemplo

Be a connector

Levi was a tax collector. His fellow Jews hated and resented him and his associates more than people today dislike the IRS for extracting so much money from us. The tax collectors were franchisees of the Roman Empire, so that made them collaborators with the enemy. They also were known as cheaters and chiselers.

As he passed by Levi’s revenue collecting booth, Jesus did an amazing thing. He called Levi to quit his job and follow him. An even more remarkable thing happened--Levi accepted the invitation. And then he did something wonderful. He invited his friends to meet Jesus: “While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him” (Mark 2:15). Levi wanted his friends to know why he was giving up the lucrative business they were all engaged in, and perhaps he was hoping that Jesus’ powerful teachings would have the same effect on them.

Do your friends know where you stand with the Lord Jesus? Do they know your faith story and why it is so powerful in your life? Levi was on to something. Do you have opportunities to bring the gospel to them or bring them to the gospel? Have you ever shared a print piece with any of them? passed on a digital devotion or video? invited them to church ‘n’ brunch?

Make a difference. Be a connector.