I wasn't a very popular person because of my occupation. A man came past while I was working and asked me to follow him. I got up, left everything and made this man a great feast.

Matthew, the tax collector, is one of the more fascinating figures in the New Testament. Working as a tax collector in first-century Judea wasn't exactly a pathway to popularity, as these individuals were often seen as traitors for collaborating with the oppressive Roman Empire. For many, their work symbolized greed and betrayal. Yet, Jesus saw in Levi—not only a sinner, but someone with potential for transformation. His calling reminds us that anyone can change and be a part of something greater.

When Levi left everything to follow Jesus, it was a dramatic step of faith that really shows his commitment and willingness to embrace a new life. Think about it: dropping your secure job with the Romans for a budding movement that many saw as radical! What’s even more striking is the feast Levi created in honor of Jesus, welcoming others who were marginalized. It sparks an interesting chiaroscuro: from being a figure of rejection, he becomes someone who brings replies of acceptance.

Interestingly, contrasting Matthew’s calling with the eventual role of tax collectors in the early church provides an insight into social dynamics. This inclusion demonstrates how far-reaching Jesus’ message was, preaching love and inclusion rather than division. So, who was Levi, really? Surely he was a symbol of hope and affirmingly radical human potential from the grains of daily life!