Just two words from Jesus are enough for Matthew to leave his whole life behind and begin anew. I imagine the warmth that must have been present in Jesus’ words, “Follow me.” In that instant, Matthew would have recognized not only that he was being called to change his ways, but also that he was loved and chosen. Jesus made him feel seen in the best and worst way, and he chose to follow.
Last summer, I went on pilgrimage with the Frassati Fellowship of NYC. On our journey in the footsteps of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, we hiked the Alps, taking in breathtaking landscapes. It was an incredible experience, though not one I would ever have sought on my own. I am not an outdoorsy person nor particularly athletic.
Before our hike, we reflected on the question: “Why do you climb mountains?” Perhaps it was to appreciate nature, push oneself to achieve more, or reach toward the heights. My honest answer, however, was that I climb mountains because my friends climb mountains. If it weren’t for their presence calling me on, I wouldn’t have been there.
work in progress 