Eat with tax collectors and sinners

Gospel: Mt 9:9-13

AS Je­sus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the cus­toms post. He said to him, “Fol­low me.” And he got up and followed him. While he was at table in his house, many tax collec­tors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. The Phari­sees saw this and said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” He heard this and said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”

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Jesus calls Matthew to become a disciple. The tax collector rises from his post and follows Jesus.

Matthew is next seen in the presence of his friends, mostly tax col­lectors, with Jesus as their distinguished guest. They partake of a wonder­ful meal from Matthew’s table, and they celebrate their friendship. The table where Jesus shares a meal with Matthew and his friends represents hospitality, inclusivity, generosity, and grace. His presence becomes important to sinners who are harshly condemned and rejected. Jesus’ com­munion with them invites their repentance and con­version.

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SOURCE: “365 Days with the Lord,” ST PAULS, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 895-9701; Fax 895-7328; E-mail: publish­[email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.