Following Jesus: A Call to Discipleship
Hebrews 4:12-16; Psalm 18; Mark 2:13-17
Jesus says to Matthew, “Follow me,” just as he said to Peter and Andrew, “Follow me,” and to James and John, “Follow me.” To follow him is a call to discipleship – a divine office that requires sincerity. If we follow him, then we shall not wallow in sin. On the other hand, the Scribes and Pharisees murmured against Jesus because of his association with Matthew, a sinner. Jesus seized the opportunity to teach them: “I am a physician, and Matthew is sick.” Every sinner is sick and needs healing.
The first reading reminds us that Christ will be there to help us because he knows our weaknesses, having been human like us. Jesus is the Physician who heals and saves; let us listen to his teaching. The Greek philosopher Epictetus once said, “The teaching of Jesus is the medicine of salvation.” As we heed his voice and follow his teaching, may we be saved. Amen!
LET US PRAY
Father, you call your children to walk in the light of Christ. Free us from darkness and keep us in the radiance of your truth. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
