Saturday 21 September

SAINT MATTHEW, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (F)

Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13; Psalm 19:1-4;
Matthew 9:9-13

Jesus chooses the outsider

As we read the Gospels we cannot help but notice that tax collectors were among the most hated people, not only by the Jewish authorities but also by the ordinary people. Their work was the collection of taxes for the hated Romans. Yet here we see Jesus actually inviting one of these hated men to follow him closely. What is more amazing is that Matthew responds immediately and becomes not only an apostle but also an evangelist. What an incredible man this Jesus must have been! Maybe as we ponder this powerful scene we could put ourselves in Matthew’s place. Are we able to feel the power and beauty of this Jesus, God-with-us? What is he asking of us today? It might just be that he is inviting us to be open to receive all he wants to give us!