July 5, Friday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Amos 8:4-6, 9-12; Matthew 9:9-13
In today’s Gospel, we witness the transformative call of Matthew, also known as Levi, who leaves his tax collector’s office to follow Jesus.
This story serves as a powerful reminder that discipleship is not just about what we do, but about who we become.
Matthew, the tax collector, symbolizes everything wrong with society: a sinner, a traitor, and an outcast. Yet, Jesus sees something in him that no one else does—potential. Jesus sees a soul worth saving and a heart capable of love. His merciful gaze transforms Matthew from a sinner to an apostle, disciple, and evangelist.
For Matthew, giving up his livelihood, social status, and reputation is the hardest decision he has to make. But he answers the call because he recognizes that Jesus offers something more valuable than anything he could have ever earned—forgiveness.
Forgiveness is not just about letting go of our past mistakes; it’s about embracing a new way of living. It’s about recognizing that we are all sinners in need of mercy. Are we ready to drop our defenses and our pride to receive God’s love and forgiveness?
When we let go of our pride and ego and choose to forgive others, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s love.
Call to Action for Catholic Living: Let us experience the joy and freedom that comes from being forgiven and redeemed.
May we be witnesses to the transforming power of God’s love in our own lives and the lives of those around us. Amen.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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