I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners. (Lk. 5:27-32)

In Luke’s gospel, Jesus demonstrates the importance of the dignity of each person, no matter their past or present.  Jesus chooses to eat with tax collectors; a group despised as collaborators with Rome and extorting more than was due.  We know that Levi (or Matthew in another gospel) will leave everything and follow this itinerant preacher, knowing there is something more to him. One might argue that this was why Jesus was willing to go to Levi’s home, thus justifying the action.  Luke reports, however, a large crowd joined in the meal plus many of their friends, thus it is doubtful that most were moved enough to leave their occupation.  When challenged, Jesus answered that he was there, not for the righteous, but for the lost.  As Pope Francis reminded Christ’s ministers, we need to be out among the sheep, not staying with the converted.