The religious leaders were always getting upset with Jesus for one reason or another. The basic condition of their hearts controlled their ability see (Mathew 13:15). It is as though they were purposely blind to the truth. When Jesus attended a party with many people who had no pretense of religion, the Pharisees became very angry.
They wanted to know why Jesus ate with people who had no profession of faith whatsoever. Jesus responded, “They that are well do not need a doctor, but the sick do. Go learn what it means that I will have mercy and not sacrifice. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Mathew 9:12-13).
We do not need to be ashamed of what God has forgiven. We can rejoice in his grace and mercy. When we refuse to rejoice in what God has done, but wallow in grief over past sins, we are taking attention away from the glory of God.
