Our life in Christ does not begin when we die, it begins now. The Christian community is the place where we are being formed into a new human image, that of Jesus himself. But none of this can occur unless we apply God's principles, the primary ones being unity, patience, and love. When we treat others as if they were part of ourselves, sharing in their joys and struggles, we learn how interdependent we are. We are all one, but the spirit that opposes God tries to seduce us into believing that we are separate, totally autonomous, and at the centre of our own little universe. We are works of art, and God is the master artist, moulding us into an image of great beauty. We too share in this holy work by our willingness to love, forgive, bless, and encourage one another. Each day we will be given many opportunities to continue God's work.

Jesus calls Matthew to discipleship even though he and his fellow tax-collectors were regarded by most as the lowest of the low. Jesus stands His ground, and insists that He has come for just such people. Again, we are all interdependent. No one must be excluded or despised. Humanity is not complete until all are restored to God. Our communities are not clubs for the righteous and perfect, but places where we learn how to love and to be fully human. Let us see every person we meet as deserving of God's mercy and love, and respond with encouragement and acceptance.