Scripture:
Isaiah 58:9b-14
Luke 5:27-32
Reflection:
"Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do. I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners."
I find great comfort in today’s gospel, knowing that Jesus has come for me as, "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). While I strive to "follow Him" by loving him, obeying him and trusting in him, I sometimes fall short, stumbling, making mistakes, failing. On this Saturday after Ash Wednesday, I find myself reflecting on how I can live a more sacrificial life? Asking, what can I do to grow closer to God this Lenten season?
As Jesus answers to the scribes and Pharisees’ disapproval over His decision to call Levi (or Matthew) to follow him, He reminds them that He has not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. If we were righteous and spiritually healthy, Jesus would have no necessity to pay a house call. And isn’t calling Levi out really like throwing stones at a glass house? Aren’t we all in need of repentance at some level? As I go forward this Lent I will work with Him to heal my spiritual self as well as showing mercy and kindness to those considered outcasts by society.
Angela Kwasinski is the Director of Planned and Major Gifts for The Passionists of Holy Cross Province.