“As Jesus passed on from there he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him ‘Follow me’” And he got up and followed him.” (Matthew 9:9)
Don’t you find this account of the calling of Matthew amazing? What did Jesus see in this man who was despised by his countrymen because he allowed himself to be used by the Romans to collect burdensome taxes from his brethren? He was labeled a sinner – no good! Amazingly Jesus saw something others overlooked. Equally amazing was Matthew’s response. He got up and followed him. No questions asked about what Jesus had in mind. No thought about personal security or comfort if he left his well-paying job with the Romans to embark on a new career. Matthew obviously also saw something in Jesus that others missed.
What can I take away from this story? Jesus is calling to me a sinner. He sees me for what I am and finds something of value. He hasn’t given up on me and daily calls me to follow in His service. He knows my weaknesses, and how much I need His strength. My response should mimic Matthew’s reaction to the invitation. Do I immediately recognize the opportunities to serve that appear before me each day and act? Do I recognize the potential in others as easily as Jesus recognizes mine? Do I reach out to others in the same way Jesus reaches out to me? My answers are my response to His call.
Today is a special day for those of us who are citizens of the United States of America . Today we celebrate the formation of our country, and the freedoms preserved for each of us by our founding fathers. The mechanics of our government guarantee us the right to freely listen and respond to the call of our Lord. Happy Birthday to US!