“… I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
– Matthew 9:13 –
A woman avoided church for years, convinced her past made her unworthy. One Sunday, a friend urged her, “Come as you are.” Hesitant, she slipped into the back pew—heart racing. Then the pastor said, “This is a hospital for broken souls, not a gallery for saints.” Her eyes filled with tears. She knew those words were meant for her.
*Jesus didn’t come to gather the already-perfect—He came to rescue the broken, the doubting, and the ones who feel unworthy (Matt 9:13). Like the woman unsure if she belonged, many of us carry burdens or shame that make us feel disqualified from God’s love. But the church is not a showroom for perfect lives—it’s a sanctuary where grace heals deep wounds. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong in God’s presence, remember: that very feeling of unworthiness is what qualifies you for His mercy. You don’t need to clean yourself up to come to God. You just need to come. His call isn’t for those who have arrived—it’s for those still on the way.
✨ A Journey of Reflection and Action
Spend a few quiet minutes reflecting on the story and Scripture in Matthew 9:13. Write in your journal how shame or feelings of unworthiness may have kept you from fully embracing God’s love. Meditate on the truth that His mercy is for the broken and struggling. Choose a moment this week to attend church, even if imperfectly, or invite someone who may feel unworthy to come with you. Share this reflection with a friend, small group, or on your social media to remind others: grace isn’t earned—it’s given. Return to this passage throughout the week and let it renew your understanding of belonging in Christ.
We invite you to follow Daily Faith Echoes each day at www.dailyfaithechoes.org for fresh reflections rooted in Scripture. Share this message with someone who needs it—and consider becoming a volunteer to spread the Gospel of Christ. Your story, your voice, your time—it matters. Let’s echo His love together. Visit our site and help us carry the message of grace to hearts still on the way.
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