DINING WITH THE “ENEMY” An old lady used to attend my daily Mass in Tondo. She would always sit at the front pew each time. She would embrace and kiss me after the Mass. She goes to the National Penitentiary in Muntinlupa every weekend to visit her two sons convicted of murder. Once in a while, I would give her a little amount for her unique weekend getaway. She would, as much as possible, bring them special food, to the envy and jealousy of her other children. They would question her about her special treatment for her convicted sons. Once she told me in tears, “Why can’t they understand? My sons are rotting in jail. The more that they need to feel that they are loved. And who will love and accept them if not me? I am their mother.” Today’s Gospel and feast is about Matthew who, as a tax collector, was regarded as an unacceptable person and treated like a criminal. During biblical times, people who dealt with money were regarded as public sinners. Matthew’s love story with the Lord came at the most unexpected yet expected place: the customs post. Jesus chose to call and befriend Matthew. He made a bold statement: God’s friendship is offered to all, regardless of one’s stature in society. Jesus’ unconditional love embraces everyone, the just and sinners alike. He opines that “those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do.” Amidst suspecting and judgmental people, Jesus chose to offer a glimpse of hope and salvation for the seemingly hopeless and hapless people. He chose not to judge but to love and heal. Jesus sees the innate goodness in each person and his equal chance to be saved. He saw in Matthew a lost child longing to be loved, accepted and given a new lease in life. He offered more than just friendship; He called Matthew to be one of His Apostles. Every sinful and “sick” man in us can long and hope for the same love, hope and acceptance from Jesus in spite of the unjust labels that we have had to endure in the past. REFLECTION QUESTION: How ready are you to accept and love those who are perceived to be bad? Lord, open my heart to love those who are unloved and are difficult to love. Amen. GoodMorning saturday :)
Posted on: Sat, 21 Sep 2013 00:21:17 +0000
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