When Levi meets Jesus, his whole life changes. He leaves everything behind and instantly follows when Jesus calls. We read similar accounts about the other disciples, so much so that it might seem easy or commonplace to us: someone meets Jesus, turns their life upside down, and follows him. How often do we really reflect on the enormity of those decisions? As a tax collector, Levi might have been scorned by the Pharisees, but he occupied a place of wealth and privilege in his society. Giving up a predictable, comfortable life to follow Jesus into the unknown must have taken incredible courage. Levi was humble and honest enough to admit his need for a Savior.
As I begin my Lenten journey, what is Jesus asking me to do? Am I prepared to follow Jesus with my whole heart like Levi? How is Jesus calling me to healing, repentance, and discipleship?
—Maggie Melchior is a convert to the Catholic faith. She currently serves as Coordinator of New Evangelization and Faith Formation for a parish in the Diocese of Green Bay.