Levi at customs post and Levi at the Table

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Saturday after  Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 5:27-32*

*First Reading : Is 58:9b-14*

*Levi at customs post and Levi at the Table*

*1) Levi was sitting at the customs post*

This particular position of Levi, clearly indicates many things of Levi 

Levi does not go to the people but seated there. People should come to him 

He is like a master and others are at to listen to him 

The relationship with others only with regard to business. Nothing more, nothing less 

Here Levi alone. No people are found there. Even if others come, they finish their work and go back 

He had money with Him, but didn't have care, concern, relationship, love, belongingness etc.

Here he belonged to no one. Only business is the motive 

At the Tax office Jesus didn't stay. He simply told Levi *Follow me* and he came 

*2) Levi at the Table at Home*

Here he is not sitting in one place and commanding others 

Here there are many people who are arround him 

Here there is a sharing of the meal, which highlights the importance of belongingness

Here, there is a presence of Jesus and He remains for long time 

Here Jesus becomes the centre of attraction

Here Levi is busy at the service of others 

Here Levi Gives to the others. Nothing he receives 

Here Levi accommodates Many. Where as at the tax booth he sends them immediately, after the business

Here he shares with others whatever he has. There he is not generous. Only receives 

Here there is family atmosphere. There it is business

 

*3) Conversion at Levis House*

First of all, other tax collecters, who were there got an opportunity to experience the mercy of God 

Secondly, Levi Himself got converted from his former sinful life to the new life 

Levi's house became a place of conversion

It became a place to experience the human relationship, divine relationship and internal relationship with ones own self 

*4) Where is my Place?*

How do I behave at the place like tax office? 

How to I approach at the places life Levi's House in

What are the difference you see with regard to these two places 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*