Matthew the Tax Collector Becomes a Disciple

(Matthew 9:9-13)

Matthew was a tax collector. In Bible times, tax collectors often took extra money from people and were not well liked. Many people thought Matthew was a sinner and did not want to be friends with him. One day, Matthew was sitting at his tax collector's booth when Jesus walked by. Jesus looked at Matthew and simply said:

“Follow me.”

Matthew was surprised, but he got up straight away and followed Jesus.

Later, Matthew invited Jesus to his house for a meal. Lots of Matthew's friends came too. Some people thought these friends were not very good people.

The religious leaders saw Jesus eating with them and asked:

"Why is Jesus eating with these people?"

Jesus heard them and said:

"People who are ill need a doctor. I have come to help people who need God's love and forgiveness."

Jesus showed everyone that God loves all people and wants everyone to come to Him.

 

The Moral of the story is that Jesus loves everyone and invites everyone to follow Him, no matter who they are or what they have done.

• Jesus is kind to everyone.
• Everyone is important to God.
• We should not leave people out.
• Jesus gives people a chance to make good choices and follow Him.
• We can be friends with people who need kindness and help.

Dear God,

Thank You for loving everyone, just as You loved Matthew. Help us to be kind, welcoming, and friendly to others. Help us to follow Jesus each day and make good choices.

Amen