As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post.
He said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him. // Matthew 9:9
Years ago on a pilgrimage in Israel, we visited the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of the Sermon on the Mount. Our group was invited to an outdoor Mass in the garden overlooking a field of wildflowers, and beyond it the Sea of Galilee. In this land, often termed the “fifth Gospel,” it wasn’t difficult to envision Jesus performing miracles and proclaiming the Kingdom of God.
But this day wasn’t just an imaginative exercise—something different happened. As I approached the priest to receive the Eucharist, I saw Jesus passing by the rows of pilgrims—some kneeling and others in line waiting to receive Him in the Eucharist. It was as if God was opening the eyes of my heart to witness a spiritual reality. As I returned to my seat and knelt down to pray, I heard a clear voice behind me whisper, “You saw Him too, didn’t you?” Stunned, I turned to meet the shining eyes of an older woman, and we shared a knowing smile.
Today’s Gospel for the Feast of Saint Matthew (see Matthew 9:9-13) describes a time when Jesus is passing by and His glance falls upon a rich and despised tax collector. Jesus does not see a man concerned only with money, but a man who is ready to exchange the riches of this world for Heavenly treasure.
For some time, Matthew might have observed Jesus’ miracles and overheard His teaching as he sat at his booth. But this day, before he even knows what he needs or how to ask, the gaze of God penetrates him. And amid the noisy, crowded street Matthew hears: “Follow me.” And then: “He got up and followed him.” This man, once despised, is raised up to become a disciple, and a great Apostle, Martyr, and Evangelist.
Jesus is still passing by! He sees you long before you see Him, and He finds you wherever you are—not just on the mountain top, but also in the dark valleys of your pain, suffering, and shame. Lift up your eyes and see your Savior passing by, and do not delay as He calls you to follow Him.
Debra Herbeck is a Jewish convert to the Church who serves extensively in youth and women’s ministry. She directs Pine Hills Girls Camp (for 34 years), and is the Founder and Director of Be Love Revolution, a ministry for high school girls. Find her books here. She and her husband have four children and eight grandchildren. She is the author of Blessed Conversations: Misericordia. Find out more about her here.
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