When Matthew met Jesus, he repented of selling out to the world, immediately walked away from his job, and became a disciple of Jesus. Because Matthew was so in love with Jesus, he invited many tax collectors and other sinners to meet Jesus (Mt 9:10). Matthew was so thankful for Jesus having mercy on him, he would have thought it merciless if he had not invited others to meet Jesus.
Matthew, the first of the Gospel evangelists, shows us that the essence of life in Christ is radical conversion, immediate evangelization, and abundant mercy. When we throw ourselves on the mercy of God, He transforms us so deeply that we feel compelled to share the greatest of all good news, that is, God's saving mercy.
If we are converted, we are merciful. If we are merciful, we are zealous for evangelization. Are you converted? Are you acting accordingly?
| PRAYER: | Father, convert me by your standards. |
| PROMISE: | "I plead with you, then, as a prisoner for the Lord, to live a life worthy of the calling you have received." —Eph 4:1 |
| PRAISE: | St. Matthew is the patron saint of bankers. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College