St. Matthew (Levi) was the scumbag of Capernaum. Tax collectors were Jews who worked for the Roman occupiers. They overcharged their own neighbors to line their pockets. They were hated.
The Glance
Jesus walked by his booth. He didn't lecture him. He didn't demand he pay back the money first. He just said: "Follow me." And Matthew got up. He left the money on the table.
The Dinner
The first thing Matthew did was throw a party for Jesus. He invited his "sinner friends." The Pharisees complained: "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" Jesus replied: "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners."
The Gospel
Matthew wrote his Gospel for the Jews. He wanted to prove to his people (who hated him) that Jesus was the Messiah they were waiting for. He quotes the Old Testament 99 times.
You are not your job. You are His. Read the Gospel of Matthew 1 on the MyPrayerTower app.
A Prayer for Grace
As you reflect on these spiritual truths, we invite you to join us in this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, we thank You for the wisdom of the Church and the witness of the saints. Grant us the grace to live out our faith with joy and perseverance. May our prayers be a sweet incense rising to Your throne, and may Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen."
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May God bless you and keep you always in His grace.