Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist (Feast)

. . . to equip the holy ones for the work of ministry, for building up the Body of Christ. 

St. Matthew is unique among the Twelve. He’s the only one who was an apostle, an evangelist, and a martyr. The most popular tradition holds that he was put to death on the orders of the king of Ethiopia. With such a lofty résumé, it would be easy for us to think of him as some kind of superhero whom we “ordinary” Christians could never imitate.

But that’s not what today’s first reading tells us. We should all consider ourselves one of the “holy ones” who has been equipped “for the work of ministry” and for the great task of “building up the Body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). Just as everything changed for Matthew when Jesus called him away from his tax-collecting post, so everything changed for us when we were baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit.

You have been set apart for God’s work, and you have a vital role to play in his kingdom. You don’t need extraordinary talent; you just need to work with the gifts God has already given you. Perhaps you have a compassionate nature; go ahead and reach out to that person who is feeling down or alone. Maybe all the division and violence in the world breaks your heart; become an intercessor who devotes a half hour each day praying for God’s peace to triumph.

As you honor St. Matthew today, remember that between the dramatic miracles and missionary journeys, there were also periods of quiet prayer and humble acts of service—and times of discouragement and struggle. He might have even had to work a side job in order to support himself and his mission. During those times, his life was probably a good deal like yours. And if his life was like yours, there’s no reason why your life can’t become more and more like his!

“Jesus, show me how I can use my gifts and talents to build up your kingdom.”

Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13
Psalm 19:2-5
Matthew 9:9-13