Homily: St. Matthew the Apostle (Matthew 9:9-13)
St. Matthew the Apostle (Matthew 9:9-13) “I Invite you Into my Life”
In St. Matthew’s Gospel, it is unclear whether Jesus went to Matthew’s house to eat or whether Matthew went to Jesus’ house to have a meal. It is fascinating to think that it was the second scenario that unfolded. Jesus must have had a house somewhere that he lived in before he took his ministry on the road.
The fact that Jesus went into the homes of tax collectors and prostitutes makes one think about how uncomfortable that may have been for religious people to see. But when we think of Jesus actively inviting others who were sinners to his own table that is even more thought provoking.
I remember going to work at a homeless shelter in Chicago when I was in campus ministry. I went in and slept with others in a dormitory and had personal interactions with many of the homeless who had addictions and psychological illnesses. I went to where they were and was on their turf and that was eye opening as well as uncomfortable.
But would I invite the homeless into my home for a meal? Would I, could I, offer them a place to sleep for a few days? This would require me to change my day to day living and to disrupt my schedule. I have seen others do such things. When I was younger, I lived with a variety of people in various places and circumstances as I did ministry. Some were homeless.
It requires a different mindset. I was not simply visiting with the homeless, but I was inviting them into my life. Jesus invited people who were public sinners into his life, and he told them that they were precious in the eyes of God.
This required great courage and great love. This made others ask questions, good questions and it challenged judgmental attitudes.
Reflection Questions:
- Have I ever invited a sinner into my life? Who was that and what happened?
- Have I ever felt judged by others? Was there someone who reassured me and accepted me?
Dear Parishioners,
As we move into the second half of September our parish religious education programs are really picking up steam. Last Sunday we had Catechetical Sunday. We recognized and blessed our religious education volunteers and our Catholic School personnel. We need a lot of teachers to educate parishioners.
One does not have to be a professional teacher to help. We just need people who are willing to offer their services. If you are interested in helping, we can always use more assistance.
Just call Debbie at our parish office and she will interview you.
May Our Lady and All the Angels and Saints watch over you.
Fr. Mark