Called to Follow: Embracing the Invitation of Christ

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The Universal Call to Holiness

In the heart of every Catholic lies a deep yearning to follow Christ more closely. On this day, January 18, 2025, as we reflect on the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, we are reminded of the universal call to holiness. The Gospel reading from Mark 2:13-17 presents us with a powerful scene of Jesus calling Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. This moment is not just a historical event but a timeless invitation extended to each of us. As we stand on the cusp of a new year, it is fitting to ponder how we can respond to this call with renewed fervor and commitment.

The Call of Levi: A Historical and Theological Perspective

The call of Levi, as depicted in the Gospel of Mark, is deeply rooted in the historical context of first-century Palestine. Tax collectors like Levi were often despised by their fellow Jews for collaborating with the Roman occupiers and profiting from their own people. Yet, Jesus sees beyond Levi’s societal role and recognizes his potential for discipleship. This act of calling a sinner to follow Him echoes the teachings of the Church Fathers, who emphasized the transformative power of God’s grace.

Go indepth with today’s Gospel reading

The Physician of Souls

Theologically, Jesus’ response to the Pharisees, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners,” aligns with the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Paragraph 1440 of the Catechism states, “The sacrament of Reconciliation with God brings about a true ‘spiritual resurrection,’ restoration of the dignity and blessings of the life of the children of God, of which the most precious is friendship with God.” Jesus, as the Divine Physician, seeks to heal and restore us to the fullness of life in God.

The Example of St. Deicolus

St. Deicolus, whose feast we commemorate today, provides a poignant example of responding to the call of Christ. Born in Ireland in the 6th century, St. Deicolus was one of the twelve disciples of St. Columbanus. His life was marked by a profound dedication to prayer, asceticism, and evangelization. St. Deicolus’ willingness to leave his homeland and embrace a life of missionary work reflects the same radical openness to God’s call that we see in Levi. His life reminds us that no matter our background or circumstances, we are all called to follow Christ and share His love with others.

Contemporary Relevance: The Call to Mercy and Inclusion

In our modern world, the call of Levi resonates deeply with the Church’s mission of mercy and inclusion. Pope Francis, in his Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, urges us to be a Church that goes out to the peripheries, to those on the margins of society. Just as Jesus dined with tax collectors and sinners, we are called to embrace all people, regardless of their past or present state. This call to inclusivity is not just a social justice issue but a fundamental aspect of our faith. By reaching out to those who are hurting or marginalized, we embody the healing presence of Christ in the world.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the call of Levi and the example of St. Deicolus, we are reminded of the enduring relevance of Christ’s invitation to follow Him. The teachings of the Church, rooted in scripture and tradition, guide us in responding to this call with humility and love. In a world that often values success and status, the Gospel challenges us to see with the eyes of faith, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every person. Let us embrace this call to holiness, allowing the transformative power of God’s grace to work in our lives.

As we move forward into this new year, let us ask ourselves: How can I respond more fully to the call of Christ in my daily life? How can I be a beacon of His love and mercy to those around me?

Watch today’s Gospel reading by @RCatholicPrayer: https://x.com/rcatholicprayer/status/1880767862924603504

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