The answer is: Levi

Mark 2:14-15

In the bustling landscape of first-century Judea, dining was not just a pleasant meal but often an act of social significance. When Mark narrates Jesus dining with publicans and sinners in Levi’s house, he unveils a profound message about inclusion and acceptance. Levi, also known as Matthew, was a tax collector—someone typically despised for collecting taxes for the Roman occupiers and often viewed as corrupt.

Imagine the shocked reactions from the Pharisees and the self-righteous elite as they see Jesus, a supposed rabbi, choosing to associate with those cast aside by society. Yet, this act wasn’t just company; it was revolutionary. It broke down barriers, showing that even the outcasts and the marginalized have a place in the message of love and redemption.

Speaking of paradoxes, the Gospel of Mark consistently presents moments that highlight Jesus' extraordinary ways of flipping societal norms on their head. Think about it: the very people relegated to the shadows are brought into the light through this act of companionship. In the same vein, the phrase “publicans and sinners” succinctly illustrates the duality of humanity and our distancing from grace.

Ironically, while Levi's job sorted society into “us” vs. “them,” Jesus sees through those divisions. This moment is not just about meeting over a meal; it's about redefining community. Levi's inclusion in the Gospel narrative echoes through the ages, inviting individuals from all walks of life into a fellowship characterized by grace and forgiveness. So, who’s invited to the table? According to Jesus, it appears everyone!