First Reading - 1 Samuel 9:1-4,17-19,10:1
Gospel - Mark 2:13-17
We often look for God’s call in dramatic moments or heroic qualities, yet God frequently works through the ordinary, the unexpected, and even through our misunderstandings. Today’s readings remind us that God’s initiative comes before human perfection and that being chosen by God is not a reward for being worthy, but an invitation to be transformed.
The First Reading from 1 Samuel introduces Saul in a surprisingly ordinary way. He is not searching for a throne or a mission. He is looking for lost donkeys. In the middle of this unremarkable task, God is already at work. Saul is pointed out to Samuel as the one chosen to lead Israel, and he is anointed with oil before he has done anything to earn it. God sees possibility where others see only the present moment. The call comes before understanding, and the anointing comes before achievement.
This reminds us that God’s plans often unfold while we are busy with everyday concerns. What feels like delay or distraction may actually be the path through which God leads us to our calling.
The Gospel from Mark presents an even more startling example of God’s initiative. Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow him. Levi is not respected, admired, or morally impressive in the eyes of society. Yet Jesus sees him, calls him, and shares a meal with him. When questioned, Jesus responds with words that redefine divine purpose: he has not come for the righteous, but for sinners.
This is not an excuse for sin, but a declaration of mission. God’s call reaches people where they are, not where they should be. Transformation begins not with exclusion, but with invitation.
Dear friends, today's readings challenge the way we think about worthiness. Saul is chosen before proving himself. Levi is called despite his reputation. In both cases, God’s initiative comes first. Grace precedes change.
This speaks directly into our lives. Many people believe they must fix themselves before God can use them. Others assume that their ordinary routines disqualify them from anything meaningful. Today’s word dismantles both illusions. God works through ordinary days and imperfect people.
The invitation today is to pay attention and to respond. Do not underestimate where you are or who you are right now. God may be calling you in the middle of routine, or inviting you to follow despite your past. Like Saul, trust that God sees more than you do. Like Levi, have the courage to rise and follow when the call comes.
When we allow God’s initiative to lead, our lost donkeys become doorways, our tables become places of grace, and our lives, however ordinary or broken, become part of God’s saving work in the world.
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