Jesus calls me by name

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In todays gospel from Matthew 10:1-7, we hear how Jesus chose his twelve apostles. In the first reading, the prophet Hosea said that Israel had a divided heart. But on reflecting on the gospel what impressed me most was that when Jesus chose the twelve men they all accepted with a heart totally dedicated to Jesus. Even Judas who was finally disillusioned when the kingdom preached by Jesus was not what he was expecting, still accepted the call and did live an apostle for several years. After calling them, Jesus sent them out on their first mission. Mark 6:30 tells us how they returned to Jesus and told him everything they had done and taught and Jesus invited them to a quiet place so that they could rest and share more.

 

Let us read the gospel again with an undivided heart and imagine that Jesus is calling a thirteenth apostle. Can I hear him calling me by name? Then he says come to a quiet place and tell me how you feel. Would I answer, ''Thank you for calling me, but I am really to busy to say yes. Or would I say, ''Thank you, Lord, for calling me. I really want to be your missionary disciple but you know how weak I am so you will have to help me.'' I pray with St Columban, '' Lord God, give me true love that never fails so that my life may shine as a light which warms my own heart and gives comfort to others. Amen.''