Called by God

“As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him.” Matthew 9:9

The person we think we are that makes us qualified, doesn’t matter. Jesus doesn’t need ability, He asks simply for availability.

Think about it – Jesus is calling you.

“If any one purifies himself from what is ignoble, then he will be a vessel for noble use, consecrated and useful to the master of the house, ready for any good work.” 2 Timothy 2:21

Matthew was horrible in the eyes of his fellow Jews, an outcast and not liked by either the Romans for whom he collected taxes or by the Jews, of which he is one. He is one of the lowest of low in society.

I put myself in this scene. I’d take Matthew’s place in the tax booth, but even he may scorn me for the sins I’ve committed against God. Sitting alone in my dark sin, I see Jesus as He walks by. He stops and turns. Wait! Why is He looking at me?!? Is He going to scorn me too. Maybe, He will pass His judgment upon me here and now. He tilts His head as those Holy eyes pierce my soul. After what seems an eternity, Jesus finally speaks, but, instead of the words of condemnation I deserve and expect, He says, “follow Me.”

I look over my shoulder to see to whom He is speaking. No one is there. I turn back and pointing to myself, I reply, “who me?” Jesus smiles and nods, “yes, follow Me.”

I am called. That day, I answered the Lord by walking out of that barred tax booth and following Him. I have never regretted that choice. In fact, if anything, I’ve surrendered more. And, as I’ve learned from my Master, He has even sent me out as His Apostle to tell of my experiences following the Lord.

You are called. It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or the sins you’ve committed. You are called. It doesn’t matter your qualifications. Jesus doesn’t look for those most qualified, only those who say yes and make themselves available to Him.

You are called. How will you answer?