The Two Tables

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 13th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:9-13*

*First Reading : Gen 23:1-4, 19; 21:1-8;, 62-67*

*The Two Tables*

*1) Two tables in today's Gospel*

The Gospel of the day gives us opportunity to reflect about two tables 

*First Table* This table is found in the Tax office, used by Matthew for His daily work

*Second Table* : This table is found in the house of Matthew, most probably in the Dining Hall, where Jesus is present 

*2) Table at Tax office*

This table is used by Matthew, for collecting taxes

This table has only business and nothing else 

This table only receives from people and does not give anything

This table is filled with the motive of making profit, using any means, even the illegal means

This table does not believe in human relationship, but only deals in business

This table believes in power, position and authority. 

This table is used for achieving the selfish goal and becoming rich using any means 

*3) The table in the Dining Hall*

This table is surrounded by various types of People 

This table has the honour of accommodating Jesus and His disciples

This table does not make any differences between the groups. All types of people are found around this table 

This table gives importance for human relationships and belongingness

This table gives an opportunity to learn from the Master

This table believes in giving and sharing rather than receiving and taking from others 

This table becomes a place of conversion for many to change their lives 

*4) The Eucharistic table at Matthew's dining table*

The table which is found in the House of Matthew is not an ordinary table but a Eucharistic table 

From this table, there is a proclamation of the Word of God, the Jesus himself 

From this table there is a Eucharistic celebration where they share the meal together along with Jesus 

This table gives an opportunity to celebrate the Eucharist in the House of Matthew

How blessed is Matthew to have this table in His house 

*5) Table in my Life*

These two tables represent our life

So, going back our life, which of these tables represent my life 

Is my life similar  to the table which is kept at the tax booth? 

Is my life represents the table which is found in the house of Matthew, which is the Eucharistic table? 

Which table I prefer? Which table reflects in my life?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*