Saturday 20th February, 2010
Isaiah 58:9-14. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may be faithful in your sight—Ps 85(86):1-6. Luke 5:27-32.

  
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What did Levi feel when he heard the words, ‘Follow me’?

Was he compelled by Jesus’ authority. Flattered by the attention? Did he yield to the look of love he saw in Jesus’ eyes? The words sound like an order, not an invitation, yet Jesus speaks with warmth to the heart of Levi’s yearning for forgiveness, to find the right path. Jesus treats Levi not as a scoundrel but simply as someone seeking repentance and a better relationship with God.

Levi is an outsider in his own society. He is a sinner who knows his sins—that seems to be half the battle! He is too honest about his sins to claim to be virtuous or important. Jesus calls sinners like Levi to repentance.

Lord, I hear your words—‘Follow me’—and I want to follow you as Levi did. Grant me the humility to recognise my faults and seek repentance in you.