In our reading from Matthew today, we see two stories that are clearly connected. The first is what looks to be a simple, one-verse, narration of Matthew’s own call to discipleship. The second is the Pharisees’ questioning of Jesus over who he chooses to surround himself with. By choosing Matthew, a tax collector and therefore a sellout to the Romans, Jesus demonstrates that he can see what others cannot see. When Jesus looks at Matthew, he does not see a sellout. His eyes of mercy allow him to see beyond the faults and the failures into the heart of someone who needs healing. But even beyond that, he sees a heart that—once healed—will write the story of Jesus that will bring untold healing in Jesus’ name.