Monday 22 September 2025
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. (v. 9)
Background
A friend of mine has a beautiful labradoodle named Prudle. My friend often takes him out for a walk or a run in the park, regardless of the weather. No matter how far Prudle wanders, he returns as fast as he can the moment my friend calls “Prudle!”
This makes me wonder: When Jesus calls your name, what is your immediate response?
Matthew the disciple recalled his experience when Jesus saw him at his workplace, the tax collector’s booth. Jesus called “Follow me.” Matthew responded not with words, but with action. He got up and followed him.
When Jesus walked with Matthew to the house, it was no surprise to see him sitting at Matthew’s table, mingling with people who were seen as 'sinners' according to the standards of the time.
Historically, tax collectors and their associates were considered sinners by Jewish society. They worked for the Roman Empire, often oppressing their kin, which made them despised by those who saw themselves as righteous, such as the Pharisees. The Pharisees avoided any dealings with tax collectors and kept their distance to prevent spiritual contamination.
So, the Pharisees couldn’t comprehend how Jesus, a rabbi, a teacher of Jewish law and proclaimer of God’s kingdom, could sit comfortably with tax collectors and sinners. Their complaints reached the ears of the disciples and their self-righteous hearts were perceived by Jesus himself.
Once again, Jesus demonstrated a core value of God’s kingdom: God’s mercy and compassion are meant to reach the lost and those estranged from his love and grace. Jesus desires our hearts more than our outward piety. When we recognise and accept our sinful nature, we too create the space to truly listen to the saviour who calls us by name.
To Ponder:
- How might you respond today to Jesus' call with willing action?
Prayer
O Lord, may the love of Christ melt the wax of my self-righteous heart so that I am not deaf to hear you calling “Follow me”. Give me courage to respond like Matthew did. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Kan Yu
The Revd Kan Yu is a presbyter in south-west London and works with Hong Kong migrants living in London.