Saint Anthony, Abbot — Memorial
First Reading
1 Samuel 9:1–4, 17–19; 10:1
Among the men of Benjamin was a man named Kish; his son Saul was tall and handsome. When the family’s donkeys were lost, Saul set out to look for them. The search led him to Samuel. The Lord told Samuel: “There — that is the man I spoke to you about.” Samuel anointed Saul, placing him over God’s people.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 21:2–3, 4–5, 6–7
Lord, in your strength the king is glad.
The psalm reflects joy in God’s strength and blessing, celebrating trust in divine care and favour.
Gospel
Mark 2:13–17
Jesus went out by the sea; crowds gathered and he taught them. Passing by, he saw Levi at the tax post and said, “Follow me.” Levi rose and followed him. Later, Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners, prompting criticism. Jesus said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick; I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Reflection
Today’s readings invite us to consider the nature of God’s call and Christ’s mercy.
God chooses Saul from among ordinary beginnings — a young man looking for lost donkeys — and anoints him for leadership. God sees beyond surface appearances and casts his call into the ordinary textures of life. Saul does not seek the role; God gifts it. God’s call often surprises us, emerging where we least expect it.
In the Gospel, Jesus calls Levi — a tax collector excluded by society — simply and directly. Levi’s response is immediate: he rises and follows. Jesus does not hesitate to share community with those labelled sinners and outcasts. His mission is not to withhold presence from brokenness but to meet it with compassion. Jesus’ words make the purpose clear: he came not to call the self-satisfied, but those aware of their need for mercy.
In both readings, we see that God’s call and Christ’s mercy intersect in the everyday and the imperfect. God’s invitation is not limited to those who feel worthy; it reaches where we are — inviting us deeper into life transformed by grace.
A moment of pause
Where in your life today do you feel God’s invitation to follow — and what mercy of Christ do you need to receive before you can answer that call?
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