Today’s Catholic Reflection
In Isaiah 58:9b-14, the Lord speaks to His people about changing their ways. He asks them to stop oppression, false accusations, and harmful words. Instead, He encourages them to show kindness to the hungry and those in need. In return for these actions, the Lord promises guidance, strength, and restoration. He compares His people to a flourishing garden, and honoring the Sabbath will bring them joy and blessings.
In the Gospel of Luke 5:27-32, Jesus meets Levi, a tax collector, and invites him to follow. Levi leaves everything behind and prepares a banquet for Jesus, inviting other tax collectors and sinners. This gathering draws criticism from the Pharisees, who wonder why Jesus spends time with such people. Jesus responds by saying He has come to call sinners to repentance, like a doctor who heals the sick rather than the healthy.