Jesus calls Matthew: Matthew 9:13
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
I have been working with Matthew for some years now. He is a tax collector, under orders from the Romans to extract money from the local people. On top of what the Romans demand, the collectors need to earn more money for their own living needs. Some of these men are quite cruel, forcing poor people to pay much more than they can afford. But Matthew is not like that. He listens to those who are struggling and will even go without things himself to help them cover their essential needs. Yet apart from his colleagues, Matthew has few friends, people despising him because he works for the Romans.
Recently Matthew told me how he had heard about Jesus and the way he had healed a paralysed man. Matthew was so excited as he told me what had happened. ‘Jesus told that handicapped man that his sins had been forgiven. What a statement! Of course it angered the Pharisees who said he was blaspheming. OK, said Jesus. I will prove to you that he is indeed free of his sin. Jesus turned to the man and told him to get up! And he did! I’d love to be a disciple of this man!’
Last week, Jesus came past our booth and said to Matthew, ‘’Come and follow me.’ Matthew looked up in stunned surprise and got to his feet at once, knocking over his stool in his eagerness to be with Jesus. I was thrilled for my boss, and stayed in the booth to keep the business going.
A few weeks later, Matthew held a party for all his tax collector friends and invited Jesus. He wanted to share his wonderful news. Of course, the scribes and Pharisees complained, but Jesus defended the party-goers, saying that he had come to save the lost, not those who think they are safe. He quoted the scriptures where it is said ‘What I want is love, not sacrifices,’ says the Lord.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Many things can paralyse our spirit. Do I bring my burdens to Jesus for his help?
· What are the things that paralyse me?
o Negative thinking?
o Low self-esteem?
o Over-commitment?
o Other people’s criticism?
· When have I felt a call from Jesus to follow his ways?
· Did I take up his invitation?
· Do I judge people unfairly?
Prayer
Lord, help me to hear your call to follow you today. Give me the freeing joy to experience your love. Help me to share that love with those I meet today. Keep me from making hasty judgements. Amen.