June 5thThe Calling of Matthew, and All of Us
Today we hear in the Gospel the story of how Jesus chose Matthew, a traitor to his own people and yes-man to the occupying Roman government, to be in his inner circle of 12 apostles. What do we make of that? Can we get at how strange & offensive this was to some people, including, at first, some of the other apostles? Can we get at who Jesus is and what he is really about? Jesus says to those who question his good judgment, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick…For I have come not to call the righteous, but sinners.” If we start to let this into our hearts, we begin to understand why Jesus’ coming was called “Gospel,” or “Good News.” Do you think God values your life and has a purpose & destiny of spiritual abundance & discipleship prepared for you? Many times we feel unworthy and, like Matthew, know how much we have squandered. The Good News is that, yes, we are unworthy, but that if we say “yes” to Jesus’ invitation, as Matthew did, the Lord will heal us and invite us into fellowship with Him, and will work wonders in us and through us. In us through His salvation & sanctification and through us as He pours out His gifts and asks us to go beyond our comfort & safety zones to share His love & forgiveness with others. We will be the ones most amazed, because, knowing our unworthiness, it is all the more wondrous experiencing what Jesus can do with an imperfect life entrusted to His mercy & grace. You can guarantee Matthew felt that way! |