Saturday after Ash Wednesday February 28, 2004 Scripture:Isaiah 58:9B-14; Luke 5:27-32 Reflection: In Luke’s Gospel Jesus invites a tax collector to follow him. Jesus goes to the home of this tax collector, dines with his friends, and is criticized for this. How dare he dine with sinners? The Pharisees are the critics, the followers of the letter of the law, who do not allow for diversity. Jesus on the other hand goes beyond this practice and not only invites Levi to follow him but also chooses to go into his home and share a meal. He begins the healing of the sick by his invitation and his presence. Jesus’ invitation to Levi is also an invitation to us as we begin Lent. Come and follow me – bring me to your home, dine with me and be present in my life. Jesus wants to include us in his ministry as he did Levi, the sinner. Suggested Action: Reflect on how you would be seen in the eyes of the Pharisees. Would they criticize Jesus for inviting you to follow him? How will you respond to the call and to the criticism? Sr. Dorothy Kibler, IHM East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

Graphic: Sr. Holly Marino, IHM