Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“After this he went out and saw a tax-collector named Levi, sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ ”
NL Daily Devotion for Wednesday, January 27, 2021
by Daniel D. Maurer, Clergy Stuff
Of all the people Jesus could have asked to be his disciples, Levi was perhaps the most unlikely. Tax collectors were not necessarily the most favorite people in the ancient world. In fact, they were despised.
Jesus had no qualms, though, about approaching him and simply requesting that he follow Jesus. Levi (also known as Matthew) complied. Why? What was it about Jesus that appealed to him? Was it because Jesus was the famous teacher and healer? Was it because of Jesus’ reputation as calling “sinners”?
I think Levi was honored by Jesus, and knew there was something about him that could give Levi new purpose and meaning in his life. This, more than anything, is what we all need—a purposeful life. Matthew gave his life to Jesus, because he knew Jesus would give all of himself for him.
Thank you, O God, that you give all of yourself to me. Guide me to follow you more closely. Amen.
