Jesus calls everyone

Eph 4:1-7.11-13; Psalm: 18; Mt 9:9-13

Today, we celebrate the feast of St. Matthew and commemorate the life and ministry of the Apostle Matthew, also known as Levi. Matthew was a tax collector before he was called by Jesus to become one of his disciples. The Gospel of Matthew recounts the moment when Jesus saw Matthew sitting at his tax booth and simply said to him, “Follow me.” In this reflection, we will examine the significance of this encounter on Mt 9:9-13 and what lessons we can learn from it.

The story of St. Matthew’s calling is one of great significance because it demonstrates the transformative power of Jesus’ love and mercy. As a tax collector, Matthew was seen as a sinner and an outcast by society. However, Jesus did not see him in the same way. Instead, Jesus saw beyond Matthew’s exterior and into his heart, calling him to join him in spreading the message of the Kingdom of God. This encounter reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love and grace, no matter how sinful or unworthy they may feel.

In the passage on Mt 9:9-13, we see Jesus sitting at a table with tax collectors and sinners, much to the disapproval of the Pharisees. When questioned about why he would associate with such people, Jesus responds by saying, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.” This statement highlights the essence of Jesus’ ministry – to reach out to those who are most in need of healing and redemption. It challenges us to examine our own prejudices and biases, and to remember that Jesus came for all, not just the righteous.

The feast of St. Matthew reminds us that our past does not define us and that there is always room for redemption and transformation in our lives. Just as Matthew left behind his life as a tax collector to become a disciple of Jesus, we too are called to leave behind our old ways and follow Christ. This may require us to step outside of our comfort zones, to reach out to those who are marginalized or oppressed, and to show them the same love and mercy that Jesus showed to Matthew.

As we celebrate the feast of St. Matthew, let us reflect on the example of his life and ministry. Let us be inspired by his willingness to respond to Jesus’ call, and to leave behind his old life in order to follow Christ. Jesus is calling to each one of us to follow him by leaving behind our old life with weaknesses. May we also be reminded of always keeping our hearts open to the possibility of transformation and redemption by accepting the call of Jesus.