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Humble Hero
filled with fish and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus
asked the disciples at the sea to leave everything for the gospel.
Everyone is tested this way, to see which is stronger—the desire for
temporary prosperity or for fellowship with Christ.
No one can succeed in the service of God unless his whole
heart is in the work. No one who holds anything back can be the
disciple of Christ, much less His colaborer. When men and women
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appreciate the great salvation Jesus has provided, their lives will
reflect the self-sacrifice of His life. Wherever He leads the way, they
will follow.
The call of Matthew made many people angry. For Christ to
choose a tax collector as one of His closest companions was an
offense against religious, social, and national customs. By appealing
to prejudice, the Pharisees hoped to turn popular feeling against
Jesus. But Jesus’ choice created widespread interest among the
publicans. In the joy of his new discipleship, Matthew made a feast
at his house and called together his relatives, friends, and former
associates. Not only were tax collectors included, but many others
who were shunned by their more scrupulous neighbors.
External Distinctions Meant Nothing
The feast was given in honor of Jesus, and He did not hesitate to
accept. He knew very well that it would give offense to the Pharisees
and their followers and would also make the people question what He
was doing. But no political concerns could influence His movements.
Jesus sat as an honored guest at the table of the publicans. By
sympathy and social kindliness, He showed that He recognized the
dignity of humanity, and people longed to become worthy of His
confidence. His presence awakened new impulses and opened the
possibility of a new life to these outcasts of society.
Many people were impressed who did not acknowledge the Sav-
ior until after His ascension. When three thousand were converted
in a day, many of them had first heard the truth at the table of the tax
collectors. To Matthew himself, the example of Jesus at the feast
was a constant lesson. The despised publican became one of the
most devoted evangelists, following in his Master’s steps.