August 22, 2024
And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him. Mark 2:14
Some of the most detested people in Israel were the Jewish tax collectors, also known as publicans. These men were employed by the Roman Empire to collect tribute from the Jews, their own people. The Roman government established a determined amount to be collected and anything taken above that belonged to the tax collectors. As long as the determined amount was received the Roman Empire did not get involved. Naturally this opened the door for tax collectors to become wealthy off the people they collected from through bribery and coercion. Since nothing could be done to prevent this greedy conduct the tax collectors were despised.
It probably surprised many when Jesus called a publican to be an apostle. Yet, it’s a reminder that Jesus forgives sin and changes lives. As Jesus said, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
When called to follow Matthew left his place immediately. There was no debate or delay. Matthew displayed a grateful heart, an obedient walk, and faithful service. Matthew witnessed great things and the Spirit worked through this publican to provide a gospel for the Jewish people.
Jesus still changes lives. Has He changed yours?
Thanks for reading…
Pastor Ramirez