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Tuesday, September 21, 2010, St. Matthew
Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13, Psalm 19:2-5, Matthew 9:9-13
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/092110.shtml
REPUTATION OR RECONCILIATION?
"What reason can the Teacher have for eating with tax collectors and those who disregard the law?" -Matthew 9:11
"What reason" could Jesus have for enjoying fellowship with those who sin? Why does He sit down, relax, and eat with "those who disregard" His very own commands (that is, the Old Testament)? When Jesus went to Matthew's for dinner, the people with whom He ate were not reformed sinners looking for holiness. They were still "known as sinners" committed to a sinful lifestyle (Mt 9:10). These people were sinners who wanted to meet Matthew's new Friend, Jesus. Thus, Jesus' reputation took a nose-dive with the faithful.
Churchgoers can give lip-service to conversion, but a lot of people would resent suddenly having a bunch of sinners in the next pew. Would the church potluck lose its regulars if a group of alcoholics and prostitutes began coming on a regular basis? Would those regulars turn against you if you were the person inviting these sinful newcomers to new life in Jesus?
As disciples of Jesus, we place a higher priority on reconciliation than on our own reputation. Conversion comes first. If gaining conversions creates conversations that harm us, then so be it. Jesus Himself said: "Woe to you when all speak well of you" (Lk 6:26). Therefore, it can be a good thing for us when people speak against us for following Jesus.
Be like Matthew. Invite sinners to meet Jesus. Cause heaven to rejoice (Lk 15:7), even if it makes your reputation suffer.
Prayer: Jesus, "what reason" could You have for sharing Your life with me? May I lead thousands to give their lives to You.
Promise: "It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice." -Mt 9:13
Praise: St. Matthew let Jesus into his home and into his heart.
(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.) (If you have talent on loan from God, He's going to expect a return on His investment. Call 937-587-5464 to see how you can work for the Lord through Presentation Ministries.)
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from August 1, 2010 through September 30, 2010
?Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 8, 2010
The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
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