+ St. Matthew, the Apostle and Evangelist was
the son of Alphaeus (and most likely brother of James the Less). He
lived at Capernaum on Lake Genesareth. He was a Roman tax collector by trade, a
position equated with “collaboration with the enemy” by those from whom he
collected taxes. Tax collectors were also known to keep some of the “take” for
themselves, another reason for them being despised by the Jews.
Jesus’ contemporaries were
surprised then to see the Christ with a traitor, but Jesus explained that he had come not to call the righteous but
sinners. Matthew was also a gospel writer and his gospel is given “pride of
place” in the canon of the New Testament,
for it was written to convince Jewish readers that their anticipated Messiah had come in the person of Jesus. He
preached among the Jews for 15 years; his audiences may have included the
Jewish enclave in Ethiopia, and places in the East. Some accounts see him
travelling as far away as Ireland to bring the gospel to the heathens. There is
question as to his actual martyrdom, but he is given the benefit of the doubt.
Matthew is then an example of
one like us, a sinner, called by God to greatness; and he responded generously
and lovingly: he left his traitorous job and followed Jesus unreservedly. We
can turn from sin and do the same, renewing our resolve each and every day.
Jesus doesn’t mind associating with us – who are not perfect by any means; may
we never mind associating with him who is the source of our conversion, our
holiness and our choice of the correct path to take that will lead to life in
his Reign, his Kingdom forever.
We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as
Lord; the glorious company of Apostles praise you.
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