Remember Levi?  Yes, that one—the tax collector. I really like that guy. He had a profession, a lucrative position, the esteem of his colleagues. Yet when he heard “Follow me,” he left everything. Levi’s decision was a step down the socio-economic ladder, one that took away much of his security. Perhaps his family thought he had gone mad. Yet in the midst of Levi’s decision to let go of everything to follow Jesus, he threw a party. The “great reception” deadened the pain perhaps, or he just wanted to enjoy himself one more time before his money ran out.  For whatever reason, Levi celebrated.

Lord, when you call “Follow me,” help me to respond at least half-heartedly. Then throw a little party. Discipleship is something to celebrate.