Jesus Tells Us: Follow Me: The Claim That Changes Everything

Today’s Homily reflects on call and claims as central to God’s action in human lives.

Drawing first from Saul’s unexpected anointing as king, it shows that God’s call is never earned, sought, or managed . . . it arrives unanticipated and places a claim on the person to grow into what God has given. Saul’s tragedy is not that he was unworthy, but that he failed to grow into the dignity of the call.

This theme reaches its fullness in the Gospel account of Jesus calling Levi. Jesus does not invite Levi politely or negotiate terms; He commands, “Follow me.” The call is immediate, authoritative, and relational. Levi’s response . . . getting up and following at once . . . is remarkable precisely because it defies normal human hesitation.

Jesus Calling Levi

The Homily emphasizes that Jesus does not come to be with us; He comes for us to be with Him. Levi’s place is no longer the customs booth but with Christ. Even when Jesus leads Levi home, it is Jesus who brings Levi there rightly, transforming his home into a gathering place for sinners in need of mercy.

The scandal for the Pharisees is that Jesus places Himself among sinners. Their mistake is wanting to assign God a place. Jesus corrects them by revealing the deeper truth: God defines our place, and our place is with Him. Christ comes not for the self-proclaimed righteous, but for those who recognize their need for healing.

Ultimately, the Homily continues and reassures believers that salvation is not based on righteousness achieved, but on mercy received. In the Eucharist, Christ again calls, “Follow me,” and the faithful respond by rising and moving toward Him . . . then following Him back into daily life, where their true place remains with Him.

Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:

Jesus Tells Us: Follow Me: The Claim That Changes Everything

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Art Work

The Calling of St. Matthew: Dutch Artist and Painter: Hendrick ter Brugghen: 1621

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Why was this image selected:

Brugghen’s interpretation emphasizes movement and decision. Matthew’s rising from the table reflects the homily’s insistence that hearing the call is not enough . . . the response requires motion, leaving behind comfort, status, and certainty.

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Gospel Reading: Mark 2: 13-17

First Reading: 1 Samuel 9: 1-4, 17-19; 10:1