1st Week in Ordinary Time (Year A) : Saturday 13th January 2024

The young Saul was neither a scholar nor a soldier; he belonged to the smallest Israelite tribe. Still, God chooses him to be king of Israel. Saul will eventually lead the army to great victories. At the same time, Saul is a weak person with many insecurities and fears. Still God chooses this weak man to be king.

In the Gospel we see another unlikely choice by God—Matthew. As a tax collector, Matthew would be viewed by many as a traitor and a cheat. Tax collectors were often excluded from synagogue liturgy. Yet Jesus chooses Matthew to be an Apostle and a saint.

Is God wise to choose such people? Jesus explains: “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Mk 2:17).

The mercy of God transcends reason. Jesus yearns to be close to people who are fragile and in need. Since we are all weak sinners, this is good news. The Lord’s mercy and power can do great things through us if we allow it. Each of us can choose to cooperate with the call and grace of God or refuse it.

Lord Jesus, I am weak but You still call me, may Your work be seen through me today.