Feast of St. Matthew - Tax Collector, Apostle
Gospel writer and follower of Jesus (September 21, 2013).
Matthew was a tax collector and tax collectors were not looked upon kindly by the Jewish colleagues of Jesus for two reasons: -
1. They used to collect taxes for the Romans who had dominated Israel.
2. Just like in our modern times, the tax collectors were enriching themselves illicitly and hoarding money, riches for themselves.
Thus, to be a tax collector was almost comparable to be a sinner in the eyes of the Jews.
But then the insightful and loving eyes of Jesus, however, see in Matthew much more than the human eyes can see and feel. Jesus perceives goodness in him. Jesus sees in him a potential disciple, an apostle, an evangelist and a martyr. He calls him and Mathew on his parts responds enthusiastically, and we know what Matthew became later.
Do not feel burdened by what people think of you, which can limit you but try to move out of yourself. It is like jumping into the river and thus slowly learning to swim. So, think rather of the inner capabilities that Jesus sees in you.
The gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are known as the Synoptic Gospels, because they include many of the same stories, often in the same sequence. There are similarities in all the three Gospels. Matthew the Evangelist, the author of the first gospel account is symbolized by a winged man, or angel. Matthew's gospel starts with Jesus' genealogy from Abraham; it represents Jesus' Incarnation, and so Christ's human nature. This signifies that Christians should use their reason for salvation.
God can use anyone to help him in his work. We should not feel unqualified because of our appearance, lack of education, or our past. Jesus looks for sincere commitment. We should also remember that the highest calling in life is serving God, no matter what the world says. Money, fame, and power cannot compare with being a follower of Jesus Christ.
St. Matthew pray for us!!!
Source : FB Gabriella
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