Homily: Thirteenth Friday of Ordinary Time
Thirteenth Friday of Ordinary Time (Mt. 9:9-13) “Would I Follow?”
Matthew’s call to follow Jesus seems very sudden. It seems unlikely that Matthew did not know Jesus at all. Jesus lived in Capernaum for a while. He may even have had a house there. Matthew probably did not collect taxes for the Romans, but he probably collected taxes for King Herod Antipas who ruled Galilee. His father was the wicked king who sought the infant Jesus’ life.
Capernaum was on the road for Egypt to Damascus. Goods would enter Herod Antipas’ territory in Capernaum and Matthew along with other tax collectors would be ready to impose what we might call a tariff today.
Matthew’s job was very lucrative. He made a lot of money. He probably had to work his way up the ranks of civil servants to get his position. He was set for life. Nothing like having a government job. But he quits his job to follow Jesus.
We would have to guess that Matthew had heard Jesus’ preaching and was attracted to his words. Maybe he was on the edges of the crowd listening. For some reason he was dissatisfied with his life. He wanted something more.
We can see what Matthew gave up to follow Jesus. What did he gain? He found a new purpose for his life. His purpose as a tax collector was to serve earthly power. He was also stacking up wealth. There is something heady about watching our bank account grow. In modern America the goal of life is to have a nice home, car, vacations and host of other material things.
Matthew’s purpose as a disciple of Jesus was to gain wisdom concerning the things of God. He went from adding figures to recording the words and deeds of Jesus in his Gospel. He passed on Jesus’ teachings about the kingdom. He did not gain earthly treasures for being an Apostle. But he stored up treasure in heaven. That treasure had no dollar signs attached to it only the joy of receiving many graces.
Reflection Questions:
- Did Matthew make a good decision when he followed Jesus? Would I do the same?
- How important is material security to me? Do I value heavenly reward more than earthly reward?
Dear Parishioners,
As we celebrate the Fourth of July weekend, we reach the halfway point of summer. After this holiday we become more conscience of the approach of the fall.
I would like to remind people that it is time to get students registered for our Catholic Schools. Seton and Alleman are great educational choices. We also are registering students for religious education classes. We have had several families ask if their children can receive baptism, first communion and confirmation. We are always ready to help. Call our office and ask to talk to Debbie.
We also are beginning to ask people to sign up for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. There are already several people signed up for the program. If you or someone you know does not have a church home invite them to join Sacred Heart.
May Our Lady of Peace pray for us this holiday weekend.
Fr. Mark