Appointment of the Twelve

Today's gospel from Mark 3:13-19 begins telling us that Jesus appointed the twelve. We would naturally add the word apostles and Jesus does say that they would be sent out to preach, but a careful reading of the text shows us that that is the second reason why they were chosen.The first reason was that they were chosen to be his companions. In those few words we discover the true meaning of being a christian. It is not first of all a call to believe doctrines but to enter into a close friendship with a person, the Risen Jesus. Pope Francis very often uses the words ''missionary disciple'' and he says, ''Every Christian is a missionary to the extent that he or she has encountered the love of God in Christ Jesus.'' (Evangelii Gaudium 120). Before communion at mass, we say the prayer, ''Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.'' We are so familiar with that prayer but I ask myself what is the word that Jesus will say that will heal me and make me worthy? Surely it has to the words that Jesus heard from his Father at his baptism. ''You are my beloved son.'' Jesus tells us that we too are his beloved sons and daughters. ''As the Father loves me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.'' (John 15:9) Thank you for your love, Lord and for the way you protect us always. Keep us in true and lasting happiness that can only come from loving and serving you, my Lord and my God. Amen.