Collins Barton
- Kjelder
- Feb 20
- 2 min read
Ever feel flawed, burdened, or sick?
Collins Barton, a freshman at LSU, serves as one of our campus interns. In addition to her tremendous ministry with our college students, Collins helps guide worship as a Lector, Acolyte, and Eucharistic Minister.
Matthew 9:12-14 But when he heard this, he said,“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.”
Psalm 51: 7 “For behold, you look for truth deep within me, and will make me understand wisdom secretly.”
Devotion
Reflecting on Matthew 9: 12-14, I noticed Jesus sat with tax collectors and sinners for dinner. When the Pharisees witnessed this, they questioned why Jesus, a teacher, ate with such people. One may not need a physician in daily life, yet when one falls ill, they are in immediate need of a physician. Before I fell and broke my elbow when I was little, I did not know exactly where the ER was. Now, I know how close it was the entire time. He is always there for you–whether in times of immediate need or not.
Psalm 51: 7 reminded me of the call to present myself authentically, both outwardly and inwardly, when I look for truth within Him. When superficial declarations of faith are backed by internal declarations of faith, one’s authentic relationship with God truly flourishes. Bowing our heads like a bulrush or covering our wounds with temporary patches only goes so far. He invites us as our genuine inner self and allows us to understand His wisdom secretly. I am reminded that He sees me as my authentic self, not as the put-together person I sometimes perceive myself to be.
If you ever feel flawed, burdened, or sick, He will sit with you just as you are. He does not want your perceived perfection; He wants you as just you are.
