September 21 is the feast of Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist.

Brief Biography of Saint Matthew

Saint Matthew was born at Capernaum. He was working as a tax collector when Jesus called him to be one of the twelve apostles. He wrote his gospel in Hebrew. His gospel, with its familiar references to the messianic prophecies, throws light on the continuity between the covenants. Moreover, his vocation is one of the most popular episodes in the life of Jesus.

Matthew’s position as tax collector  made him suspect. He  appeared to be conspiring with the enemy by those from whom he collected taxes. Jesus’ contemporaries were surprised to see Christ with a traitor. However, Jesus explained that he had come “not to call the just, but sinners.”

“Mark and Luke call Matthew by his Jewish name Levi. Mark says that he was “the son of Alphaeus” (Mark 2:14). The name Matthew means “gift of Yaweh.”  Jesus may have given him this name when he decided to become a follower.

Due to his profession, Jews of strict observance would have nothing to do with him. He was despised by the Pharisees who hated all publicans (tax collectors for the Romans). Therefore, his response to the call of Jesus to follow him is all the more remarkable, as he stood up at once, “leaving everything behind” (Luke 5: 28).

Matthew’s Gospel is given priority of place in the canon of the New Testament. It was written to convince Jewish readers that their anticipated Messiah had come in the person of Jesus. Matthew preached among the Jews for 15 years. His audiences may have included the Jewish enclave in Ethiopia, and places in the East.

In art, Matthew is represented by an angel holding a pen or an inkwell. In addition, Saint Matthew is the patron of: accountants, bankers, bookkeepers, security guards, stockbrokers, and tax collectors.

Prayer to Saint Matthew

Dear Levi, now known as Matthew, you were first a publican, a tax collector, and then a gatherer of souls for Christ after immediately following His call. Later you wrote wonderful accounts of your Jewish brethren of what Jesus, descendant of David, said and did as Teacher and Savior. Make all accountants imitate your example in giving careful and honest accounts. Amen.

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