Today we reflect on the moment Jesus called Levi, the tax collector, to follow Him, which culminated in a transformative meal shared with those ostracized by society. As we consider this narrative, we observe Jesus' deliberate choice to build community with the marginalized, showcasing that grace extends to all, regardless of past transgressions.

The act of sharing a meal signifies acceptance and belonging. Through this act, Jesus communicated that the path to a fulfilling relationship with God is not barred by social status or sin. Let's contemplate how we can emulate Jesus' example of unconditional acceptance in our daily interactions.

• Have you ever felt like an outsider? How did it feel to be welcomed and accepted?
• In what ways can you extend grace and acceptance to those on the margins of your community?
• Reflect on a time when someone reached out to you during a difficult period. How did it affect your relationship with God and others?

• Pray for the courage to reach out to those who are often excluded or overlooked.
• Ask God to open your eyes to opportunities to express His love and grace in unexpected ways.

The narrative of the sinful woman anointing Jesus' feet at the home of Simon the Pharisee invites us to explore the tension between religious legalism and the power of repentance and love. Her act of worship, in the face of judgment from the religious elite, underscores the profound impact Jesus has on those who encounter Him with sincerity.

Let us consider the ways in which we might unconsciously hold onto judgmental attitudes that create barriers to true fellowship. May we be inspired by this woman's boldness and Jesus' acceptance, which together paint a picture of the redemptive heart of the gospel.

• How can you challenge yourself to see others through the lens of compassion rather than judgment?
• Do you sometimes prioritize religious tradition over meaningful connections with others?
• Think of a time when you experienced judgment. How did the grace of God help you overcome that experience?

• Pray for a heart that is open to true repentance and the courage to express your devotion to Jesus openly.
• Seek forgiveness for moments when you have judged others, asking God to fill you with His unconditional love.

Within the familiar walls of Martha and Mary's home, we discover a powerful lesson on priorities. As Martha toils, burdened by the desire to serve, Mary chooses to sit at Jesus' feet. This passage challenges us to discern the one thing that is needed, which is to be in the presence of Christ, above all else.

Let us reflect on our own lives and identify the distractions that may be keeping us from fully experiencing the joy of communion with Jesus. How might we readjust our priorities to ensure we are not merely busy, but truly living out the call to be His devoted followers?

• What are the 'Martha tasks' in your life that may be keeping you from 'Mary moments' with Jesus?
• In what ways have you experienced the peace that comes with prioritizing time with Christ?
• Can you recall a time when letting go of control resulted in an unexpected blessing?

• Pray for the wisdom to balance service with worship and for the insight to recognize when to choose the better part.
• Ask for the sanctity of your time with Christ to be protected amidst the busyness of life.

The account of Jesus dining with the Pharisees sheds light on the subversiveness of the Kingdom of God. At the table, Jesus confronts the pride and exclusivity of His hosts, advocating for humility and the inclusion of the marginalized in God's banquet.

As we revisit this story, we are invited to consider our own attitudes towards others and to evaluate whom we might be excluding from our tables. May we embrace Jesus' call to lower ourselves, to lift others up, and thus, to mirror the Kingdom values of humility and hospitality.

• How can you practice humility and inclusivity in your community?
• Consider the ways in which you could make your 'table' more welcoming to the least of these.
• Reflect on an instance when someone's humility made a significant impact on you.

• Pray for the grace to embrace those who society has rejected, as Jesus did.
• Seek a deeper understanding of the Kingdom of God and how its principles can transform your daily life.

On this final day, we turn to the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector whose life was changed by an invitation to dine with Jesus. His transformed heart is evident in his response to Jesus' presence, a beautiful example of the restorative power of divine love.

Let this narrative remind us that no one is beyond the reach of Christ's love and that an encounter with Jesus has the potential to redefine our identity and purpose. May we walk in this assurance and extend the same invitation to genuine relationship that Jesus offers us to those we encounter.

• What does the story of Zacchaeus teach you about the character of God?
• How have you experienced transformation through encounters with Jesus?
• In what ways can you be a catalyst for change in the lives of others?

• Pray that God would use you to show His love to those longing for acceptance and transformation.
• Give thanks for the ways in which Jesus invites us into a life-changing fellowship with Him.