St. Matthew's Day (21 September)/Trinity 16 (20 September)

18/9/2015

It really is that easy

In our Gospel lesson for today Jesus gives Matthew the simplest of invitations. "Follow me," (Matthew 9:9) he says to Matthew, and Matthew gets up from his tax collection booth in faith and follows. Sometimes when we hear Jesus' call we make the answer too hard, but becoming a follower of Jesus is really that easy! Matthew could have decided that it was too hard, or that he was not good enough, or that others were more deserving, but he doesn't. Instead he accepts the invitation, and allows the presence of Jesus in his life to transform him and make him good.
The Pharisees are indignant! What does he think he's doing calling someone as unworthy as that? But Jesus knows their hearts and answers them;

"I desire mercy and not sacrifice. For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners" (Matthew 9:13)

Out of that same great love and mercy Jesus calls us too. The question we must ask ourselves is, will we make it all too hard? Or, will we respond in faith and follow?

Till next time
Andrew

Readings

1st           Proverbs 3:1–6
2nd     Ephesians 4:1–14
Psalm    19
Gospel    Matthew 9:9–13

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