* Background Checks and Jesus

Later, Levi invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. (There were many people of this kind among Jesus’ followers.)
Mark 2:15 NLT

In my day job, one of the tasks in my portfolio is processing new hires. Regardless of the position offered, it is mandatory to run a background check and prescreen for drugs and alcohol. There is a variety of background checks from which to choose; some vastly more stringent than others, depending on the job description and work location. Only those who pass are eligible to begin the actual process to be employed. 

Once in a great while, we meet a candidate who has a questionable past but who is forthright about the circumstances. Often, we are able to work with that person and proceed with employment, (depending on the grade/number of hits on the prescreens). While reading Mark 2 for our promise, I was reminded of this particular employment scenario. 

In verse 17 of Mark 2, Jesus said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” 

In my opinion, this passage is one of the greatest stories in the Word of God! He's choosing His disciples and they are not the crème de la crème. Jesus has the background knowledge of EVERYTHING we've ever done, said or even thought! And yet, nothing can disqualify us when we give it ALL to Him, good AND bad. There isn't anything that can preclude us. God tells us in Isaiah 1:18, “Come now, let’s settle this,” says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow." It doesn't matter how it's graded - or how many hits are on it when it's processed - our background check comes back clear when Jesus runs it. In Christ, our past does not determine our future.

Prayer:

Father,
          Thank You for making every provision for us in preparation of our permanent, eternal position with You. Give us opportunities to tell others of Your greatness and Your faithfulness and Your great love toward us. Give them hearts and ears to hear. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen