Matthew 9

Reflections on Matthew 9: A Call to Follow and Embrace the New Way

Welcome back, friends! We’re diving into the powerful chapter of Matthew 9, where we find Jesus healing the sick, calling a tax collector, and challenging the norms of fasting and tradition. This chapter is packed with moments that reveal Jesus' heart for restoration, transformation, and what it truly means to follow Him. Let’s reflect on a few key elements that stood out to us.

The Calling of Matthew: A Bold Step of Faith

One of the most striking moments in Matthew 9 is the calling of Matthew. As a tax collector, Matthew was seen as an outcast—a traitor to his people, taking money from his own Jewish community to support the Roman Empire. He was rich, yet hated, isolated from others due to his profession. Yet, when Jesus calls him, Matthew leaves everything behind—his booth, his wealth, his security—and follows Jesus.

This act of faith and courage is powerful. Matthew didn’t hesitate, didn’t ask for more time or explanations; he just followed. It makes us wonder: What would it look like for us to follow Jesus so completely, with that same boldness? Could we leave behind our comfort zones, our old ways, and fully commit to this new way of life that Jesus offers? It’s a challenge for all of us, but Matthew’s example is inspiring.

Fasting, Tradition, and the New Wine

In verses 14 to 17, we see a conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees about fasting. The Pharisees ask why Jesus’ disciples don’t fast when others do, and Jesus responds with a profound metaphor about the bridegroom (Himself) and the guests at a wedding. He explains that while He is with them, it’s a time for celebration, not mourning. However, when He is gone, they will fast.

Jesus’ response points to something deeper: His arrival represents a new way of doing things. Just as you wouldn’t patch an old garment with new cloth or put new wine into old wine skins, Jesus is ushering in a new covenant—a new way of relating to God, centered on grace and relationship, not just rules and traditions. This message still rings true for us today: Are we holding onto old practices, just because they’re comfortable or familiar, or are we open to the new rhythms that God is calling us to embrace?

The New Way: Embracing Change and Transformation

As we reflect on the imagery of the new wine in new wineskins, we are reminded of how crucial it is to allow our lives to be transformed by the gospel. Just like wine needs a flexible skin to ferment and expand, our hearts need to be open to the work God is doing in us. Sometimes, this means letting go of old ways of thinking, habits, and even traditions that no longer serve us or align with God’s will for our lives.

It’s not about rejecting the past, but being willing to allow God to bring something fresh into our lives. As we approach this new year, let’s take time to examine our own practices. Are there areas where we’re holding onto old patterns or mindsets that need to change? Are there new rhythms, new ways of living that God is inviting us into? Let’s ask ourselves, like Matthew did, if we’re ready to fully commit to following Jesus in this new way.

In conclusion, Matthew 9 challenges us to look at the ways we follow Jesus, the traditions we cling to, and the boldness with which we respond to His call. May we, like Matthew, be willing to leave behind everything for the sake of following Jesus—embracing the new way He offers us, and allowing Him to transform our hearts and lives.

As we continue to reflect on these truths, let's commit to following Jesus more fully and with greater courage, knowing that He is doing a new thing in us.