Matthew 8:1-17 (pt. 1)

In reading the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks of narrow gates, impossible standards, and righteousness that must exceed even the most religious. It sounds like the words of a hard man, a strict judge, someone unmoved by human weakness. And yet… turn the page and you meet the same Jesus, touching the leper, healing the servant, welcoming the outsider. Full of grace. Overflowing with compassion. How can the same person deliver such absolute truth and then extend such deep mercy?