A Reflection on Mk 2:13-17

There was a time when i was upset by the rampant corruption happening in our local government. I looked at our politicians as rightly to be denounced or criticized because of mishandling the public wealth. When I heard them talk with empty promises most expecially during elections the immediate reaction would be with a yaaaks or with an ew! These people must not merit special attention.

Dear brothers in Christ the Gospel (Mk 2:13-17) changes my paradigm. Jesus set an example that it is sin that is to be denounced not the sinners. He did not condemn them. He talked and eat with them. Jesus even invited them to follow him. He focused not on the misdeeds but on the goodness and dignity present in every human person. Are we doing the same as Jesus did to our corrupt politicians, to those who are considered public sinners of our society? What kind of pastoral care we or the Church extended to these kind of people. These things are easier to be said than to be done.

Honestly speaking, I am afraid that I may have a hard dealing with the corrupt government officials. It's okey just to talk and eat with thim, but to let them realize that Jesus calls them is not that easy. We have to assure them that the Lord is nor indifferent to their situation. We have to let Christ's presence be felt by these people. And let them experience conversion of heart.

As I said, this task is not easy. It needs thorough preparation on our part. The reason why we need formation. Let us try to reflect on this. Have we made each day in seminary formation an opportunity for us to learn the example of Jesus who comes not for the righteous but sinners? Do we allow ourselves to be formed and transformed according to the Heart of Jesus, so full of compassion and love.