Jesus hung out with sinners, why can't I? (or should I?)

Some people find themselves in a dilemma when they are trying to pull away from a lifestyle that was threatening to pull them down away from the Lord, and yet they know and love those that they use to call "family."  Friends are important, but they don't always think like us and love the things we love. How do we draw the line between "hanging out with sinners" like Jesus, and protecting our own call to holiness?

First of all, we must remember that we are not perfect, but we are called to be perfect. This makes the presented dilemma totally legitimate. So, here are few guidelines you might find useful for yourself or your child when deciding to "go or not to go." 

1. Pray. Before Jesus went into public ministry, he always prayed. After spending a lot of time with people, he prayed. Personally I'm convinced that with his friends he also prayed. I'm sure Mary, Martha, Lazarus, and Jesus prayed often. Before you go out and when you come home - pray. Something simple. Something honest. 

2. Lean on someone. You don't need a whole bunch, but a few - absolutely. When you want to go out, but you have your doubts (especially after prayer) whether it is good for your soul - call one of these people up and do something with them. Stay busy, enjoy yourself, be creative. Jesus went to the homes of sinners, but those who refused to convert - he always loved, was never mean - but he spent his free time with the likes of the apostles and Mary and Martha. 

3. Admit. Let your friends know why you aren't going, and admit it to yourself. You may be surprised when the others change their mind. Jesus was no softy. He said what needed to be said, always with the intention of doing the Will of his Father and helping the others to see the truth. Sometimes the other caved, sometimes they went away stubbornly.

4. Charity above all Else. Sometimes we are called into tough or uncomfortable situations. Or maybe we find ourselves in a place that is a lot of fun -but a temptation. Well, repeat steps 1 to 3. Still there - check your motivation and love. Jesus was with the sinner - because it is the sinner that needs him. He was there to bring love and to respect their dignity - the tax-collector, prostitute, adulterer, pharisee, etc. He wasn't there to have fun (simply) or to forget his cares or deny his purpose and mission.

5. Pray. Lean on someone. Admit. Charity above all Else. Place yourself in the hands of God.