Jesus’ choice of Matthew as one of His closest disciples had to be scandalous at the time. Matthew was a publican or a tax collector for the Romans. Jews hated tax collectors and considered them to be the lowest of sinners, a person that even God could not redeem.
As a tax collector, Matthew paid in advance tax money to the Romans for his tax booth. Then, Matthew collected taxes from the Jews to cover his investment. He charged more than the tax rate to insure himself a profit, but usually, tax collectors extorted far and above what was owed. They were known for their greed. Roman soldiers enforced their actions so no one dared to object to the dealings of a tax collector.
Thus, you can understand why the Jews hated tax collectors.
Matthew’s life ended up being an explosive testimony to the Jews of the life-changing power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Today, I prayed:
Lord, I pray that You walk through America and say, “Follow Me,” to the lowest of sinners, the Matthews among us, and use them as testimonies of Your greatness. (Based on Mark 2:14)
What do you think and has the Lord spoken to you today?
Join with me on Tuesdays to fast and pray for America.
Larry Who 
For some reason, Mr. Larry, this has me crying. . . And praying. May I not forget what I was saved from and for. I prayed from Amos 7:2-3 . . .
“O Lord God, forgive, I pray!
Oh that Jacob may stand,
For he is small!”
So The Lord relented concerning this.
“It shall not be,” said The Lord.
Here,s the little poem/prayer:
Forgive us Lord
for we are small
of mind and
understanding.
Please relent
help us repent
That we may fulfill
our callings.
Thank you and God bless you mightily!
Debbie,
Thanks. I was pulled back from the edge of Hell. So, I know what you are talking about. The prayer/poem is fabulous.