Mark 2:13-17
And he went forth again to the sea side: and all the multitude came to him. And he taught them. And when he was passing by, he saw Levi, the son of Alpheus, sitting at the receipt of custom; and he saith to him: Follow me. And rising up, he followed him. And it came to pass as he sat at meat in his house, many Publicans and sinners sat down together with Jesus and his disciples. For they, with Jesus who also followed him. For they were many, who also followed him. And the scribes and the Pharisees, seeing that he ate with publicans and sinners, said to his disciples: Why doth your master eat and drink with publicans and sinners? Jesus hearing this, saith to them: They that are well have no need of a physician, but they that are sick. For I came not to call the just, but sinners.
Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. Many people would have considered Levi unworthy, yet Jesus sees beyond appearances and recognizes his potential. This Gospel reminds us that God’s grace is available to everyone, regardless of their past. Too often we judge ourselves or others based on failures and mistakes. Jesus looks at the heart and invites transformation. His call is not reserved for the perfect but for those willing to respond. Every encounter with Christ is an opportunity for a new beginning and a deeper relationship with Him.