Why do doctors spend their time in hospitals? Because that’s where the sick people are.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector. Matthew was despised by many. Tax collectors were known for abusing the system, overcharging others, and enriching themselves at their neighbors’ expense. Yet when Jesus passed by, He simply said, “Follow Me.” And Matthew did.

The Pharisees couldn’t understand why Jesus would spend time with tax collectors and sinners. But Jesus answered, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.”

Jesus didn’t come for the self-righteous. He came to seek and save sinners. He came for Matthew. He came for the people gathered around Matthew’s table. He came for us.

Like patients in a hospital, we all suffer from the same deadly disease—sin. We cannot heal ourselves. But Christ, the Great Physician, came to bring forgiveness, life, and salvation through His death and resurrection.

The good news is that Jesus still calls sinners to Himself. He calls us out of our old life and into a new life of faith, forgiveness, and discipleship. No one is beyond His mercy.