Gospels explained by Jesus - Gospel messages, gospels explanation |
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Matthew 9:9-13
Year A -
10th Sunday in ordinary time
I did not come to call the virtuous but sinners
When I saw Matthew for the first time I said to Him: “follow me”. He did not hesitate but followed me. There was something very good in him that made Him understand what a great opportunity had come his way.
He was a sinner just as all my followers are, before they hear my call. He was very happy to meet me and invited me to his house. For a while he was simply enjoying the opportunity of being seen with me, since I was already a very important figure in the eyes of men. My invitation however was stronger than anything he had imagined. When I say, “follow me” I touch the soul and the spirit within, I open the eyes of the spirit of those who live in darkness so that they may rejoice in my light. I touch the darkness of ignorance to radiate the light of my wisdom, and for those who are humble enough to listen and follow, my grace grants them conversion and sanctification. The mentality of the Pharisees was very critical. They were jealous of my teachings and sought to find fault in everything I did. "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" they asked my disciples. Why does God seek the sinner if not for the purpose of saving him? Well, to those who underestimate my mercy I must say that they are totally blind, since I came into the world for the purpose of saving sinners at the cost of my own life. So great is the fire of love that burns in my Heart, that my only desire for the world is that they repent and amend their ways so that my salvation may be given to everyone. I do not discriminate the sinner; on the contrary, he needs my mercy more than the just man. Therefore I continue begging souls to follow me, I lavish them with many gifts in this life hoping that some day they will finally listen to me and accept my salvation. My call is for everyone. Please, listen to me! Repent of your sins. Amend your lives and follow me!
Received by: Joseph
of Jesus and Mary
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9 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him.
