We in Chicagoland are enjoying the fact that the new pope, Leo XIV, grew up here. But what sticks with me from the papal transition is a painting. After the death of Pope Francis, I read that his favorite painting was The Calling of Matthew by Caravaggio. The painting shows Matthew, a tax collector, before he became a disciple of Jesus. He’s seated at a table with a pile of coins, surrounded by wealthy friends or clients. Jesus has approached. Caravaggio highlights two hands: Jesus’ hand, on his extended arm, pointing emphatically at Matthew; and Matthew’s hand, pointing to his own chest, as he looks puzzled and surprised. You can almost hear the dialogue. Jesus: “You! Follow Me!” Matthew: “Who, me?!?” He certainly would wonder why a respected Jewish rabbi would seek out someone hated by his people because he grew wealthy helping Roman oppressors. Surprise, shock and disbelief was a logical response to Jesus’ words. Pope Francis may well have felt the same when elevated to the papacy.

Who, me?

Perhaps Caravaggio’s purpose in this painting was to encourage all of us to realize the same surprise, shock and even disbelief. Because Jesus’ “Follow me” is extended personally to each of us. And it’s not based on our worthiness, how good or smart or talented or religious we are. If we’ve never thought, “Who, me? Surely you don’t mean me!,” we’re not being fully honest with ourselves.  

Yes, you.

Jesus says, “Yes, you. I know your brokenness, your failures. But I want you, just as you are. I dealt with your failures, past and present and future, through my death. Now I offer you my life, life in all its fullness. But I don’t force anyone to follow Me. This is an invitation, not a command. It won’t always be easy. ‘Taking up your cross’ is part of following Me. But the joy and peace and impact begins today and only gets better in the future. As we go, I will be working to heal your brokenness and to use you as a tool to soothe the wounds and lovingly deal with the brokenness of others.”  

“ Jesus . . . saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he rose and followed him.” Matthew 9:9

Who, me? Yes, me. And you.