Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Guillermo Villegas SVD – Divine Word Seminary of Tagaytay
September 21 – Feast of Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist
Last December, one of the finest gifts the Lord gave me was a person, a complete stranger, a modern-day “prodigal son.” It was a delight to listen to him recount the adventures of his early life: entering the army at sixteen, fighting the Huks in Pampanga, volunteering for service in Vietnam, emigrating to the United States, and pursuing a college education later in life. Even more inspiring was hearing about his encounter with the Lord and how he now serves others through his work as a chemical engineer.
His story reminds me of Matthew, the tax collector who became a disciple, an apostle, and eventually an evangelist. Matthew’s conversion gave rise to the joy Jesus Himself described: “There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who have no need of repentance” (Luke 15:7).
There is something deeply attractive about sinners who become saints. They are often more relatable, practical, and grounded. They have walked through darkness and survived. They have known weakness, failure, and brokenness, yet have allowed God’s grace to transform them. Their scars often shine more brilliantly than medals. As St. Paul wrote: “Where sin increased, grace abounded all the more”(Romans 5:20).
My youngest brother raises fighting cocks and spends time at cockpits. One remark he made has stayed with me over the years: “Brod, there is perhaps more honesty in cockpits than in churches.” Among cockfighting enthusiasts, a person’s word is expected to be honored. Once a bet is made, it must be fulfilled. To break one’s word invites immediate consequences.
Surprisingly, this observation reminds me of people like Matthew. Sinners who have experienced conversion are often remarkably trustworthy. Having fallen and risen again, they understand the value of honesty, commitment, and mercy. They know what it means to be forgiven and therefore strive to live with integrity.
There is a reason why Jesus called Matthew despite his questionable reputation. Sitting at the tax collector’s booth, Matthew heard the Lord say simply: “Follow me” (Matthew 9:9). And he rose and followed Him. Jesus saw not only who Matthew was, but who he could become through grace.
In the Gospel, the Pharisees were scandalized that Jesus associated with tax collectors and sinners. But the Lord replied:
“Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners” (Matthew 9:12-13).
If I were asked, as in one of those television survival shows, to choose just one companion to be stranded with on an island, I would not hesitate to choose someone like Matthew—a sinner turned saint. Such a person knows both human weakness and divine mercy. Such a person has learned humility, gratitude, perseverance, and trust.
And if anyone doubts that choice, let us remember that Jesus Himself chose Matthew.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You did not come to call the righteous but sinners. Thank You for seeing beyond our failures and calling us to a new life. Give us the humility to acknowledge our sins, the courage to repent, and the generosity to trust in Your mercy. Like St. Matthew, may we rise when You call us and follow You wholeheartedly. Amen.
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