We all need Jesus

TODAY'S READING: Matthew 9:18-26
I find it interesting how certain situations remove the barriers between different classes of people. I still remember on September 11, 2001, when people of all races, income levels, political parties, and more, came together.
It seems that in tragedy we are all faced with the reality of life. Sure, when times are good we can hide behind the false security of our earthly belongings. Money can buy happiness, but it is only temporary. And we often use it as a barrier to "protect" us from those who may not be a well off as we are.
We see in Jesus' encounter with these two people from different places in society that we all need Him. First we see the leader of a synagogue. Here is a man who is "high society." He probably wears all the right clothes and lives in the right neighborhood. People all over town would have looked up to Him. But in this man's time of need he turns to Jesus.
Right in the midst of this encounter we meet the bleeding woman. She would have been an outcast. With her medical problems she would have been considered unclean and unable to enjoy full involvement in her Jewish community. The leader of the synagogue would have likely had nothing to do with her.
So how much more powerful does this make Jesus' action when He puts the needs of the woman before the leader of the synagogue? In the end Jesus helps both of them, but He also makes a statement. Jesus doesn't care where we are in society. He isn't impressed with our titles or position. As a matter of fact, He favors the woman who would be considered "lowly" to most.
Our faith calls us to do much more than meet with people like us and encourage our own little group. Faith in Jesus challenges us to step out of our comfort zone. Actually, Jesus demands that we do this.
James speaks of this struggle that we face...
My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim that you have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people more than others?
For instance, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in shabby clothes. If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, "You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor"--well, doesn't this discrimination show that you are guided by wrong motives?
Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn't God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren't they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him? And yet, you insult the poor man! Isn't it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? Aren't they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?
Yes indeed, it is good when you truly obey our Lord's royal command found in the Scriptures: "Love your neighbor as yourself." But if you pay special attention to the rich, you are committing a sin, for you are guilty of breaking that law. (James 2:1-9)
Our neighbor is not just the person next to us that lives in a house like us, drives a car like us, and wears clothes like us. Our neighbor is anyone we encounter in life.
Many of us struggle with how to deal with people who are "different" than us. We are comfortable in our own group. We like how easy it is to be with people like us. But if we are truly faithful followers of the Christ we must follow His example and turn the world's rankings upside down.
When we are willing to tear down barriers the world has created then we can truly bring the love of Jesus to our world. Until we are willing to get uncomfortable and reach out to others Jesus will not be able to fully shine through our lives. It won't be until we realize everyone needs Jesus that we will serve everyone for Him.

shine!
Jason