Matthew 9:9-13
THE CALL OF MATTHEW
Today is the
commemoration of St. Matthew the Apostle. He is also called Levi in the
Gospel of St. Mark and St. Luke. The
name Matthew means the Gift of God. Ministers are God’s gifts to the church;
their ministry and ability are God’s gifts to them. Matthew was a publican,
from among a group who are notoriously unscrupulous in the collection of taxes.
Because of their extortion and position as agents of Rome, the publicans were
socially rejected, religiously excommunicated and politically viewed as
traitors. Nevertheless, their job was lucrative. When Jesus called Matthew,
saying
“Follow me” (v.9),
he forsook his lucrative position to become the Lord’s disciple. How many of us
would walk away from high – paying job to be the Lord’s servant?
Having
seen what Jesus had done for him, he used his influence to introduce others to
Christ. He invited his friends, to a feast in honour of Jesus that they too
might become acquainted with him (v.
10). How many of us have opened our home to our neighbours and friends to
introduce them to Christ? Can you open your home for House – fellowship?
Matthew’s example of using his influence to bring others to Christ should be
instructive to each one of us.
PRAYER: Lord, make me an instrument to bring sinners to Your kingdom, through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
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