FROM TAX COLLECTOR TO GOSPEL WRITER

More than any other disciple, Matthew had a clear idea of how much it would cost to follow Jesus, yet he did not hesitate a moment. When he left his tax collecting booth, he guaranteed himself unemployment. For several of the other disciples, there was always fishing to return to, but for Matthew, there was no turning back. Two changes took place in Matthew’s life when he decided to follow Jesus. First, Jesus gave him a new life. He not only belonged to a new group, he belonged to the Son of God. He was not just accepting a different way of life, he was now an accepted person. For a despised tax collector, that change must have been wonderful! Second, Jesus gave Matthew a new purpose for his skills. When he followed Jesus, the only tool from his past job that he carried with him was his pen. From the beginning, God had made him a record-keeper. Jesus’ call eventually allowed him to put his skills to their finest work. Matthew was a keen observer, and he must have mentally recorded what he had seen going on around him. The Gospel that bears his name came as a result. Matthew’s experience points out that each of us, from the beginning, is one of God’s works in progress. Much of what God has for us, He gives long before we are able to consciously respond to Him. He entrusts us with skills and abilities ahead of schedule. He has made us each capable of being His servant. When we trust Him with what He has given us, we begin a life of real adventure. Matthew couldn’t have known that God would use the very skills He had sharpen-ed as a tax collector, to record the greatest story ever lived. And God has no less meaningful a purpose for each one of us. Do you hear Jesus saying to you, "Come, be My disciple"? What will be your response? - Life Application Bible Sponsored by: Lemon Blossom Guest House 4 Kerk Street Potchefstroom, 2520 Tel: (018) 297 1137 or Cell: 082 803 3872