RBWords

     The tax collector Matthew (Levi), after being called by Jesus to be an apostle, invites Jesus to dinner with other folks in professions considered by the Pharisees to be "unclean."  The word, "sinner," does not necessarily mean moral failings in this context.  The Pharisees are quick to criticize and Jesus replies in words that should be repeated over and over again, especially in our current polarized and politically bitter society. Go and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.

     I have mentioned before that "judging others" is a common fault I hear in the sacrament of reconciliation.  But I rarely hear, if ever, someone accuse themselves of being unmerciful!  Our assessment of an individual or group may be accurate, but how merciful are we "going forward" with that assessment?  Pope Francis has been a consistent and vocal preacher about mercy, and has been criticized by certain elements of the church who consider themselves to be "righteous!"  He is not alone.  Diocesan bishops and pastors know that every effort to reach out to those considered less "Catholic" in their behavior or beliefs will attract severe criticism from gavel-wielding judges whose only sentence is: EXCOMMUNICATE!  

     If we want to be among Jesus' disciples, we need to examine our personal notions of who is "righteous" and how merciful we are in their regard.  If we're honest, we really should say to those at table with Jesus, "Can I join you?" AMEN