The Feast of St Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist

Eph. 4:1-7.11-13, Mt. 9:9-13. Today we celebrate the life of Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, the attributed author of one of the four Gospels. He was called, sent and proclaimed the Gospel by his actions, written and spoken words. In today's first reading, Paul speaks of the Church as the unity of those who believe, those who are edified and called to edify others. Key to the understanding of the Church is the notion of oneness. The Church is one in union with the Holy Spirit, having one body and one Spirit, professing one Lord, one faith and one baptism, one God who works in and through all. Though we have different ways of living the life of the Gospel, the common purpose of all our ministries is to build up the Body of Christ, to make it more mature and stronger. Matthew worked in this capacity beyond the level of an Apostle and Evangelist, but also as Prophet, Pastor and Teacher.

As an Apostle and Evangelist, his effort to establish the Church founded by Christ, according to Apostolic and Church traditions, is evidence as he ministered to the faithful in Judea and other parts of the region. As Prophet, he enlightened the Church and as Pastor and Teacher, he equip and educate the Church in his writings. In today's Gospel, he was said to have sat at the custom house when he was called by Jesus (Mt. 9:9, Mk 2:14 and Lk. 5:27). Matthew, the son of Alpheus was a Galilean and a tax-collector at Capharnaum (Mk 2:14). Though a Jew, he collected custom duties for Herod Antipas and was despised for being a traitor. Matthew embraced a new life after abandoning his past life as Levi, following the Lord and making that change of name as a sign of his dedication to God and to his newfound faith. He wrote his Gospel targetted on the Jewish community and spent a lot of time and effort in his writings in order to reveal the truth of God to the Jewish community. The faith, dedication and commitment of Matthew remind us that though sinners, we are capable of great deeds in God. What we need to do is to embrace God’s love and mercy and answer His call without looking back.

May the Lord, who showed His great mercy to Matthew the tax-collector, grant us the grace to live in close union with Christ so that our hearts may be cleanse from sin! Amen!! Good morning and have a pleasant day!!!