Jesus reaches out
From today’s Scripture: “As he passed by, he saw Levi, son of Alphaeus, sitting at the tax post. Jesus said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he got up and followed Jesus.”—Mk 2:14
This week we have seen gentiles, paralytics, lepers, and the ill people coming to Jesus. Today we see Jesus calling someone who is physically well and probably fairly wealthy given his profession of a tax collector. However, he is ostracized by the Jews because of that very occupation. He is seen as a traitor, a sinner.
Despite this, Jesus reaches out to him and tells him to follow. Jesus befriended outsiders and was at home with them. They were people who recognized their need, in contrast to the scribes and the Pharisees, who were often proud and arrogant. By doing this, Jesus announces that the Kingdom of God is not just for the perfect; it is accessible to all including sinners.
Let us pray: Lord, we are the tax collectors and sinners whom you have invited to share at the table with you. Help us recognize our need. Let us accept your invitation with gratitude and grow in openness to what you offer to us.
Today’s author is Mike Schneider, Glenmary’s former Treasurer and Chief Administrator.
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