St Matthew the Apostle

Eph. 4:1-7.11-13, Mt. 9:9-13. For all those who wish to persevere in their fidelity to God, the choice of 'giving-up' something so dear is inevitable. This 'giving-up' must be a faith-inspired choice welded with strong faith and determination. Matthew whose feast we celebrate today became the disciple of Jesus out of choice and determination. He gave up his position as a tax official to answer the call of discipleship. Today's Gospel presents the call of Matthew as a call to intimate friendship with Jesus. Matthew belonged to a class that was bitterly hated by the society. He was considered a public sinner with no part in the ordinary social life. By calling such a public sinner, Jesus breaks all barriers and shuns all taboos to His loving mercy and healing.

In Matthew we have a man who abandoned his earthly riches to be part of God's household. The invitation, "follow me" was a moment of grace for Matthew before he realised that the one who called him had something special to offer him which the world could not offer. Jesus comes to us also with the same assurance of offering something special which the world cannot offer us. When Jesus calls us, He calls us to a life of intimate commitment and friendship with Him. He invites us today to come and share that same intimate union with Him.

May the Lord draw us closer to Christ so that our hearts may be cleanse from sin! Amen!! Good morning and have a pleasant day!!!