(story told in Matthew 9:9-13; Mark 2:13-17; Luke 5:27-32)
Matthew, also called Levi, was a tax collector in the city of Capernaum when Jesus called him to become one of His disciples. Tax collectors in those days were often disliked by their fellow Jews because they worked for the Roman government and were known to take more money than required. People saw them as greedy and sinful. Yet Jesus saw something different in Matthew—a heart ready to change and follow God’s call.
One day, as Jesus was walking by, He saw Matthew sitting at his tax booth. Instead of condemning him, Jesus said simply, “Follow Me.” Without hesitation, Matthew left everything behind—his job, his money, and his comfort—to follow Jesus. This moment showed the power of Jesus’ invitation and the willingness of Matthew to leave his old life for something far greater.
Later, Matthew hosted a dinner at his house for Jesus and many other tax collectors and sinners. The religious leaders were shocked and asked why Jesus would eat with such people. Jesus replied, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” His words revealed His mission—to reach those who knew they needed forgiveness.
Matthew’s transformation from a tax collector to a disciple reminds us that no one is beyond God’s grace. He later became one of the twelve apostles and the author of the Gospel of Matthew, sharing the story of Jesus’ life, teachings, and love with the world.
Matthew’s story teaches that Jesus calls people from all walks of life. When we respond to His call with faith, our lives can be completely changed—and we, like Matthew, can help others find hope in Him.