Matt 11:19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
These are the words of Jesus Himself. He quotes their own phrases as applied to Himself. What a title! How wonderfully true it is --- "A Friend of Sinners!" So He was and so He is --- a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. Laying aside the Royal Robes of Heaven, He came here to befriend sinful men. It was a Life-Work that cost Him His Life. Hallelujah! What a Friend! How gladly He paid the price of Friendship. As we take up the work of the day, let us ask ourselves the question, "Am I a friend of sinners?" If not, then I am not like my Lord, for He was, and He joyed in it.
Lord Jesus, the world is full of friendless sinners. May we make them acquainted with Thee who art their Friend. Amen.
