Luke 5:27–32 CALLED AS WE ARE

Year A, Saturday after Ash Wednesday

In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. This is surprising because tax collectors were disliked and considered sinners by society. Yet Jesus does not hesitate. He simply says, “Follow me,” and Levi leaves everything behind.

What is even more striking is what happens next. Levi hosts a meal for Jesus, surrounded by other tax collectors and sinners. People begin to complain: “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus answers with words that reveal His mission: “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”

This Gospel speaks directly to the heart of Lent. Lent is not a season only for the spiritually strong or perfect. It is for all of us — people who struggle, fail, begin again, and sometimes feel unworthy.

Many people carry quiet guilt or regret, thinking they must fix themselves before coming closer to God. But Jesus shows the opposite. He meets Levi exactly where he is. The call comes first; transformation follows.

Lent reminds us that God does not wait for us to become perfect. He invites us now. Our weaknesses, failures, and wounds are not obstacles for God — they are often the very places where His mercy begins its work.

Like Levi, we are invited to rise, leave behind what keeps us stuck, and follow Christ one step at a time. Conversion is not a single dramatic moment but a daily decision to turn again toward the Lord.

Jesus still sits at the table with sinners — and that means there is always a place for us.

Question to Ponder: What is Jesus inviting me to leave behind so that I can follow Him more freely this Lent?

With Love and Prayers

Your Co-Traveler

Fr. Leo