Readings
I - 1Sam. 9: 1-4, 17-19, 10:1
II - Mk. 2: 13-17
WE ARE PRECIOUS TO GOD
Today’s Gospel passage is about the call of Levi, the tax collector. The tax collectors were considered as sinners because they collected more than that was levied and since the tax collectors worked for the Romans they were also considered as traitors. To such a man, Jesus extends his loving call saying, “Follow me” and went to his house to dine with him. The Scribes of the Pharisees criticised this act of Jesus; and to them Jesus responded saying, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners”.
We precious in God’s sight, honoured and loved so much (Is. 43:4). His benevolent love for us sans our sinfulness and unworthiness, highlighting the image of God imprinted in us. Often times people are discouraged with their sinful living and guilt feeling; and to such people this passage is an encouraging and consoling invitation to come back to the Lord. Let no fear barricade us from approaching God, instead trust in the mercy of God and forge ahead to approach Him and His loving hands in deed would lift us up conquering all that is not of God. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer, "Thank you Jesus"
