There is a remarkable story in the life of Jesus, when the religious leaders are incredulous at his actions and behavior. On the heels of having accused him of blasphemy (for healing a paralyzed man and daring to say, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven”!), the religious leaders now express their incredulity that Jesus would welcome and be welcomed into the homes of the culturally despised. They asked his followers, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?!?!” Here is how Jesus responded to them — and to everyone ever since, including those of us who live 2,000 years later on the other side of the globe:

“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

House of Mercy in New Haven, CT desires to be a community of lifelong learners in the ways of mercy and grace. We aspire to be those who acknowledge our need for mercy and forgiveness as a sick man needs a doctor. We invite you to join us! Help us learn the ways of mercy as we aspire to follow Jesus together.

(Feel free to also explore our Resources page for ways in which we are seeking to learn mercy together.)