The answer is: Levi

Mark 2:14-15

In the Gospel of Mark, we see Jesus pushing boundaries, embracing society's outcasts by dining with publicans and sinners at Levi's house—Levi also known as Matthew, famously one of the Twelve Apostles. Respected as a tax collector, Levi was indeed an unlikely candidate to receive the Messiah, as publicans were often despised by the Jewish community for their collaboration with the Roman oppressors.

This moment is fascinating not only for its context but also because it drenches us in the inclusive spirit of Jesus. His willingness to share a meal illustrates a profound message of acceptance and love, breaking social taboos. Did you know that sharing a meal in ancient cultures came with deep social connotations? It was an expression of friendship and unity. By choosing Levi’s house as the setting for this meal, Jesus signified that everyone is worthy of grace and community, even those frowned upon by society.

As you dig deeper into the stories of publicans, it’s intriguing to note that they aren’t just isolated tales; they echo elsewhere in scripture, providing layered meanings in various contexts. Levi's story serves as a core inspiration for understanding redemption and the inclusive nature of divine benevolence. It urges us to consider our own ‘dining tables’ and who is often excluded from them today – a thought-provoking challenge for a loving and united community in any age!