“And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.” Matt 9: 9

His wealth would have made him the envy of every discontented man who felt that respect would have been more forthcoming had he commanded a greater level of material prosperity.  He would have been the desire of every woman who believes life would be so much easier had she had a man who could take better care of her.  That searching child who yearns to become someone of worth and position might have stared admiringly, yeah longingly at this man of no ordinary distinction.  And yet….