In whose house did Jesus dine with publicans and sinners?

In Mark 2:14-15, we see Jesus calling Levi, also known as Matthew, who was a tax collector — a profession not exactly held in high esteem during that time. Tax collectors were often viewed as traitors by the Jewish people, collaborating with the Roman occupiers and exploiting their fellow Jews in the process. Yet Jesus invites Levi to be one of His disciples and later dines in his house, mingling with not only Levi but other publicans and sinners. This act was quite radical and controversial.

The dinner table, in ancient Jewish culture, symbolized acceptance. By dining with those considered outcasts, Jesus challenged societal norms, emphasizing inclusivity over exclusion. This echoes themes from earlier scriptures, like when the prophets spoke against hypocrisy and urged the compassion towards those deemed undesirable (think of Isaiah’s calls for justice and mercy). Also, the surrounding graft of dinner imagery flows into other gospel legends; for instance, the Last Supper or the feeding of the multitude.

Fun fact: Levi’s call reveals how Jesus appreciates raw potential over perceived reputation. Years later, Matthew, formerly Levi, would go on to write one of the gospels that shares Jesus’ teachings, showing transformation from rejection in society to a significant role in its spiritual narrative. Despite the judgment that may come from society, every people and every story carries potential for profound change.