September 21, St. Matthew 

Their message goes out through all the earth.--Psalm 19:5

Mass readings: Ephesians 4:1-7,11-13 / Matthew 9:9-13

Most in Need

Clearly, Jesus was always drawn to those most in need. In today's short Gospel reading, He reminded the faultfinding Pharisees that He hadn't come simply for the ''well'' -- those with loving hearts and a healthy faith. Instead, His ministry was a sort of spiritual triage. The most severely wounded came first. Whether they knew it or not, many people desperately needed the Physician's healing touch.

Today's Gospel reminds us that Matthew, a tax collector, was a smart and wealthy man. In his day, Matthew ''had it made.'' But this man was also despised and isolated. By Jewish law, he was barred from the synagogue and forbidden, with robbers and murderers, from acting as a witness in any court case. Perhaps Matthew was ''dying'' of shame and self-loathing when Jesus offered him a sort of heart transplant.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for coming to heal us -- especially those who need healing the most.