In fact, that’s precisely why He came. We already know that Jesus uses all kinds of people – the ones you and I have already written off, and it seems the more unlikely, the better. Jesus doesn’t shy away from human weakness, hangups, heavy pasts, and hard core division.

He took the hard road for us, and that completely wrecks me. Jesus had a world to rescue, and every step of the way He wanted us to know that absolutely nothing or no one is beyond His transforming reach. You know, to set me up for some efficient kingdom success. Let’s be real, I’d want the disciples to make me look good. After all, there’s a world to save, Jesus, and we need buy-in. If it were up to me I’d definitely choose the path of least resistance: men with great reputations – low on drama, high on refinement – and I’d for sure run away from anyone or anything that might incite more controversy into an already touchy political scene. Jesus came to rescue the world alright, but He didn’t do it in a way that the world expected. As we learned a little more about Matthew and Simon the Zealot this week, I’m reminded once again that Jesus does things so opposite of all of my fleshly inclinations. The story of how God loves his children and comes to rescue them.” But all the stories are telling one big story. Sally Lloyd-Jones is right: every story whispers His name. another character comes onto the scene you end up unwrapping another intentional, beautiful look into the merciful heart of God. One minute you think you’re studying the lives of the twelve disciples, but. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope-the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” – Titus 2:11-14 “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.

Simon the zealot