Everyone on this earth longs to be loved which gives a sense of belonging and acceptance. One of the most wonderful things Jesus demonstrated as He walked the earth was the reception He gave to the poor, the needy, the downcast and sinners. This did not sit well with the religious rulers.
In response to their accusation, Jesus responses, "The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.' But wisdom is proved right by her deeds." (Matthew 11:19 NIV). Jesus not only visited the tax collectors and other such sinners in their homes, but He touched them.
He was not corrupted or changed by their wickedness. No, beloved, in His presence they were transformed right where they sat, drunk or sober, cursing or in silence. They were in awe of such a Man who cared enough to receive them in their present condition. Jesus didn't agree or accommodate their sin but spoke truth that liberated them from sin's bondage.
What is it about Jesus that is drawn to the outcasts and the marginalized, sinners, sinful wrecks and failures? All the while He largely ignores the religious crowds filled with pomp and pretense who claim to be right in God's eyes based on their good merits and efforts.
Again Jesus responds to this question by saying, "...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." (Mark 2:17, NLT).
Sinners know when they have reached the end of themselves. They know that are sin sick, weary and bound up, but religious people will deny their true heart condition for outward appearance and show of good deeds.
Perhaps that is why Jesus is so attractive to sinners because He alone can save, redeem and deliver when everything else has failed.
Change is possible and difficult but why wouldn't anyone not desire to be changed when Christ has received you into His heart?
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