Jessel Pradeep Cutinha csc –
Readings: Eph 4:1-7,11-13; Mt 9: 9-13
Today we celebrate the feast of Mathew an Apostle of Christ. His call tells us that God can transform those who follow him whole-heartedly to a devoted disciple. Mathew today tells us that Jesus calls us regardless of our background. Jesus came not to call the righteous but the sinners. It is the message of liberation that Jesus proclaims to us. Mathew today, by using his pen, spreads the same liberative message to all through the gospel.
Jesus’ attitude towards Mathew was compassion, when the world considered him as a tax-collector and a sinner. Jesus looked at him with the eyes of mercy and included him in his company. For Mathew, this call of Jesus became a transformative event. Mathew in return uses this gift of call to bring many towards Jesus. Today, Mathew challenges us to remember the call we have received from Jesus. He invites us to live in humility, compassion, and acceptance.
Today we too like Mathew are called to play our role in the community and society to spread the good news of love, unity, compassion and mercy of Jesus Christ. Let us ask ourselves: how can we actively contribute to the growth of Christ’s family? How can we extend the grace of Christ to others?