The Gospel reading for the Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time is taken from the Gospel of Matthew. In the reading, St. Matthew recounts how Jesus called him to become one of His disciples. St. Matthew was a tax collector which, for many at that time, would seem the most unlikely of candidates to be a disciple of the Messiah. Tax collectors were among the most despised persons in Jewish society because they were seen as traitors who assisted the Romans in oppressing the Jewish people. In addition, they earned their living by profiting from their own countrymen in order to supply money to the oppressors of the Jewish people. It is no wonder that Jesus is questioned by the Pharisees about the company he keeps because it includes tax collectors. In their minds, how can he be the Messiah of Israel if He is associating Himself with traitors. His reply indicates that His Kingdom is not political, but a Kingdom of love. His Kingdom is one of mercy for those who are ill rather than a place for the already holy. This mercy extends to all, not just a few.

Readings:

Hosea 6:3-6
Psalm 50:1,8,12-15
Romans 4:18-25
Matthew 9:9-13

Here are a few commentaries on these readings:

• God Desires Mercy, Not Sacrifice - Pontifical Household preacher, Capuchin Father Raniero Cantalamessa


• St. Charles Borromeo Lectionary Site (PDF)


• Sacrifice of Praise (Also available to be heard as an MP3) from St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology


• Religiosity vs. Holiness from The Crossroads Initiative