1/19/2024 (Friday) Today’s gospel reading: Mark 3:13-19

13 Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted and they came to him.
14 He appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles, that they might be with him and he might send them forth to preach
15 and to have authority to drive out demons:
16 He appointed the Twelve: Simon, whom he named Peter;
17 James, son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James, whom he named Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder;
18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus; Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean,
19 and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him.

1/19/2024 (Friday) Today’s gospel reflection / sermon / homily: Mark 3:13-19

The gospel passage above is a foundational text for the call to follow Jesus, the diversity and inclusivity of this call, and the empowerment of ordinary individuals to participate in God’s redemptive work in the world.

The call of the 12 signifies the beginning of a community of believers, united not by ethnicity or social status, but by their commitment to follow Jesus. This community would continue Jesus’ mission of teaching, preaching, and healing, as indicated in the later parts of the Gospel.

The selection of the twelve disciples is crucial. The number twelve is symbolic, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, indicating Jesus’ mission to restore and fulfill the promise to Israel. However, Jesus’ choice of individuals also indicates a new beginning. The disciples were from various backgrounds, including fishermen, a tax collector, and a zealot. This diverse group shows Jesus’ intention to reach out to all sections of society, breaking social and religious barriers of the time.

The call to follow Jesus is inclusive and transformative. It is an invitation extended to all, regardless of background or previous life experiences, to join a journey of faith, growth, and service. As Jesus called the twelve to spread his message of love and redemption, so too are we called to embrace our unique roles in contributing to a community united by faith and committed to making a positive difference in the world.

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