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Father Mike's word for today

Jesus! Don't choose those people!

Reflection

Jesus chose Matthew to be an apostle. He also chose a man names Simon who was a Zealot. Matthew stood for everything Simon opposed. Simon was a terrorist who opposed the Romans and anyone who worked with the Romans. Matthew was a collaborator with the Romans. Jesus chose people who were in contention with each other. We should think of this when we think of the people in our ministries and parishes who contend and disagree with us.

Scripture

Matthew 9:9-13

As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him.

While he was at table in his house, ⁷ many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples.

The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher ⁸ eat with tax collectors and sinners?"

He heard this and said, "Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. ⁹

Go and learn the meaning of the words, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' ¹⁰ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners."

Prayer

Lord, I marvel at the people you chose to be your disciples and apostles. They were so diverse. There must have been much anger and struggle. you chose those people to help me deal with the many diverse people I find in the Church. Help me to work through the differences to find your blessings. Amen

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