1/24/2025 (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.

1/24/2025 (Friday) Today’s Gospel reflection / homily / sermon: Mark 3:13-19

The Gospel reading above recounts a profound moment in Jesus’ ministry when He went up a mountain, called those He wanted, and appointed the twelve apostles. This passage offers us valuable lessons about being called and equipped for God’s purpose in our lives.

The first thing to notice is Jesus’ intentionality. He called those He wanted. This reminds us that God’s call is personal. He doesn’t choose us because we are perfect or extraordinary but because He sees in us a unique role in His Kingdom. Like the apostles, we are chosen by grace, not merit. Despite their flaws such as Peter’s impulsiveness, Thomas’s doubt, and Judas’s betrayal, they were still chosen. This reassures us that God’s calling is not limited by our imperfections.

Next, Jesus appointed them to be with Him. Before they were sent out to preach or perform miracles, their first calling was relational: to be with Jesus. This is a vital reminder that our primary purpose is to develop an intimate relationship with God. Our service and ministry should flow from the time we spend in His presence. Without this foundation, our efforts may lack the power and guidance needed to fulfill His will.

Jesus also gave the apostles authority to drive out demons and proclaim the good news. This emphasizes that when God calls, He equips. You may feel unqualified or ill-prepared for the tasks ahead, but God provides the strength, wisdom, and resources necessary to fulfill His purpose. Like the apostles, who came from various backgrounds like fishermen, tax collectors, and zealots, we each have unique experiences that God can use for His glory.

It is also significant that Jesus called the twelve together as a group. This demonstrates the value of community. Each apostle had a different personality and perspective, but together, they formed a team that would impact the world. In the same way, God places us in communities where we can support, challenge, and grow with one another.

Reflecting on this passage, ask yourself: How is God calling me? Perhaps He’s inviting you to draw closer to Him through prayer and Scripture. Maybe He’s nudging you toward a specific ministry or encouraging you to step out of your comfort zone. Whatever the call, know that God will guide and equip you.

Finally, remember that God’s call is not just for the extraordinary moments; it’s also for the everyday. Whether you’re at work, at home, or in your community, you are called to reflect His love and light.

The calling of the twelve Apostles inspires us to embrace God’s call with faith and humility. Let us trust that He has a plan for our lives, and rest in the assurance that His grace is sufficient to carry you through. Let us answer His call, and watch how He uses us to make an eternal difference.

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