21 September 2019 - he got up and followed him

 

Today's Readings

(Audio)

Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do.

None of us are well. But some of us are more aware of our need than others. Some of us have come to the point that we no longer believe our old ways of doing things are suddenly going to provide new, different, and ultimately satisfying results. Many of us will continue to repeat our behavior anyway, even though we know better. We are all called to make the choice Matthew did in one way or another.

He said to him, "Follow me."
And he got up and followed him.

Even if we've allowed Jesus to lead us and to shape some aspects of our lives it is likely that we haven't made as complete a break with being in control as Matthew did. Yet we are called to be every bit as radical in following Jesus as he.

But grace was given to each of us
according to the measure of Christ’s gift.

We have all received gifts from Jesus. Are we letting him lead us in how we use those gifts?

to equip the holy ones for the work of ministry,
for building up the Body of Christ,
until we all attain to the unity of faith
and knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood,
to the extent of the full stature of Christ.

Why may well wonder why the Church doesn't display more of the love, peace, and unity that ought to mark it. It seems that we aren't all pursuing the one hope of our call as Matthew did. It seems like we are hedging our bets. We are choosing those with whom we want to share our gifting, choosing when we feel like sharing, and generally keeping control in our own hands.  Matthew shows us that even today we can leave our old ways and follow Jesus radically. Even though we've heard his story before, even though in the past we have heard appeals to follow Jesus more closely, Matthew shows us that it really is possible. It is possible here, now, today. When Jesus calls let us follow him.

Through all the earth their voice resounds,
and to the ends of the world, their message.