Pag-alis ni Jesus doon, nakita niya si Mateo na nakaupo sa paningilan ng buwis. Sinabi ni Jesus sa kanya, “Sumunod ka at maglingkod sa akin.” Tumayo nga si Mateo at sumunod sa kanya.

Mateo 9:9

Tax collectors were hated during the time of Jesus. Bukod sa pananakot sa mga tao tuwing singilan ng buwis, itinuring din silang traydor ng kapwa nila Judio because they worked for the Roman government. Marami rin sa kanila ang yumaman dahil sa mga kickback from overcharging the citizens.

Hindi promising ang background ni Matthew para maging disciple ni Jesus pero tinawag siya Nito. Matthew seemed to be not qualified but Jesus qualified him. And his response to Jesus’ call cost him a lot.

His former life as a tax collector may have affected his relationship with his fellow Jews, especially the other disciples. They were probably uncomfortable having him around, but they had to welcome Matthew in their circle. Also, his fellow tax collectors may have ridiculed and judged him for leaving his affluent life to follow a man who claims to be the Messiah.

Matthew gave up a life of power and privilege to follow a man he barely knew. But his decision gave him the privilege of being discipled by the Son of God. He was uncertain of his future, but his eternity was secure because he obeyed. He lost money and influence, but Matthew’s writings continue to influence the lives of millions of people today.

Naalala mo pa ba ang mga pangyayari sa buhay mo when Jesus called you to follow Him? Makulay din ba tulad ng buhay ni Matthew? Following Jesus may have cost you a lot but seeing how you have grown today, it was all worth it.