Go and learn the meaning of the words, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' I did not come to call the righteous but sinners." Mt 9:13
When was the last time you went to the doctor? Unless it was for your annual physical, it was probably when you were sick. Nobody likes to go to the doctor, and so we only go only when we need healing.
Matthew admits in his gospel that he was a tax collector. He was probably doing pretty well for himself, but he was not well liked. Tax collection wasn't a reputable job. They were like the "Tony Soprano's" of his day, strong-arming the Jews and often taking more than what was do. So when Jesus asked Matthew to follow him, Matt must have felt something. He made the decision to leave his life of ruthlessness and begin a life of peace and righteousness.
Jesus went in search of the spiritually sick. That's why he was known to hang around tax collectors, prostitutes and other sinners. He quotes his father - from Hosea 6:6 – saying he's not interested in the religious leaders' cheap piety in the form of burnt offerings. He desires mercy, charity, compassion, kindness – the fruits of the spirit. And his mission, much like a doctor's, was to go among the sick (sinners) and heal them.
How is God leading you? Are you reaching out to those in need? Are you offering what you can to heal the sick? Are you living a life of peace and compassion? These are the greatest gifts you can offer when you choose to follow Christ.
