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Sunday 11 June 2023. Trinity 1. Matthew 9.9-13, 18-26
Blessings that are quite simply too precious to keep to ourselves.
‘Follow Me…’ Two words which changed a life, giving Levi hope and a future. Levi had sold his Jewish soul by collecting taxes for the Romans. The Jews despised him so much that even walking through his shadow sullied their piety. Levi exploited his insider knowledge of his community, knowing who could pay a bit more this time round, and making his living by adding his bonus onto their taxes.
So when Jesus stopped by his table one day, Levi expected to receive more Jewish contempt. Instead, Jesus saw past what Levi was and invited him to discover God’s abundant, joyful, eternal life. ‘Follow Me…’ When Levi, whom we know as Matthew the disciple and gospel writer, accepted Jesus’ invitation he left everything behind in a simple yet life-transforming step of faith.
Following Jesus can transform us too! When we respond to God’s cry to ‘know him and press on to know the Lord’ (Hosea 6:3) we follow the source of holiness, abundance, goodness and grace. Through him, we discover what it is to be completely free and forgiven, the joy of both receiving and sharing his abundant love and blessings. Blessings, which spring from the One who offers us, like Matthew, his unconditional, generous love, welcome and grace. Blessings that are quite simply too precious to keep to ourselves.
Bryony Wood is a priest serving in North Nottinghamshire/the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham.
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