St. Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector for King Herod Antipas at Capernaum when Jesus called him to follow Him. He was so overjoyed at this new calling that he organized a great feast in his home for Jesus and his disciples, even inviting his fellow tax collectors. The Pharisees were amazed that Jesus comfortably dined with the very people they despised as extortionists and traitors. He was fluent in both Aramaic and Greek and was known for his writing skills. He was the first one to write an account of our Lord's life and teachings, which he himself had witnessed and heard from the other Apostles. Matthew's Gospel was written to inspire and strengthen the faith of Jewish Christians who were still influenced by Judaic traditions. Matthew's gift of storytelling and writing in Aramaic allowed him to group similar acts and teachings of Jesus. He highlighted that Jesus fulfilled all the prophecies concerning the Messiah, including being born of a virgin in Bethlehem, curing the sick, and fulfilling the ancient prophecies of Isaiah, even in his Passion and Death. Matthew's Gospel serves as a beacon of hope for all Christians, reminding us that despite all the challenges and obstacles in our path, we can find strength in our faith that Jesus is the Messiah. The discovery of St. Matthew's relics in Salerno in 1080 provides evidence of his martyrdom by stoning. Matthew is the patron saint of tax collectors and bankers.
St. Matthew, obtain for us the grace to forsake all covetous desires and inordinate love of riches; intercede for us that we may follow Jesus wholeheartedly. Amen.
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
No comments:
Post a Comment