Gayla Carey

“Who? Me?”

I am Gayla Carey and my husband Ed and I have attended St. Alban’s since 2017.   I have served on the Stewardship and Advisory Committees.  I enjoy working with the Lunch and the Word team on Wednesdays.

"I know who you are and I know what you've done. Come, follow me."

Click here to read the appointed scripture for the Saturday after Ash Wednesday.

Devotional

Caravaggio’s painting The Calling of Saint Matthew has hung in the Church of St. Louis of the French, in Rome, for 400 years. Matthew, despicable tax collector in league with the Roman oppressors, is in his usual course of business—surrounded by sacks of money and assistants who are busy counting.  He is suddenly transfixed; for there is Jesus with an intense gaze, arm extended and finger pointing at Matthew. The moment before, Jesus called Matthew to follow him.

And here’s the thing I had not contemplated that made my heart burn:  Caravaggio has Matthew pointing to himself with an expression of utter amazement, obviously thinking: “Who? Me? Do you know what I’ve done?”

We know the rest of the story.  Jesus loves Matthew with a love that is beyond understanding. A love that says to each of us — just follow me.  I’ll give you a new heart and a new way of life. Just follow me and you’ll know the true riches. And Matthew did–ight then and there.

As this scripture further teaches, when Matthew throws a big dinner party to introduce Jesus to his fellow traitors and notorious sinners, Jesus’ invitation is for everyone–everyone; but not all will respond. Those who have particular difficulties are those who have satisfied themselves with their own perceived goodness. Those still blind to their own desperate situation. Those who can’t yet say with Matthew: “Who? Me?”

Help us, Lord, to have eyes to see how much we need You every day!