And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach and have authority to cast out demons. (Mark 3.14-15)

What a commission! Jesus appointed twelve men, made in His image, to carry divine purpose. Like Jesus they were born, raised in homes, trained in trades and entered into the society of their day. Diverse and contradictory backgrounds. One was a tax collector, a stooge for an oppressive Roman emperor. Another was a zealot, a man hungry for blood and revolution. Some were educated and titled, while others were tradesmen. He invited them from across their cultural contexts and called them to be with Him.

How incredible to be personally called by Jesus. To hear our names on His lips. To feel His arm on our shoulder as we journey down the road. To feel His divine gaze as He watches us searching for the meaning of His words; and yes, even the heavy stare when, like the Pharisees, we can’t quite grasp His meaning.

Today, like the twelve, long before we would ever consider ourselves ready, are we willing to hear Him naming us apostles; to be His messengers sent out with purpose? We would much rather stay near Him, enjoying the wine of His nearness and eating the bread of His presence, but into the thirsty and hungry world, Jesus is sending us. He imbued His disciples with power to cast out demons and authority to proclaim His good news! Is Jesus’ missionary love enough to drive us out into a dying world, trusting His indwelling Spirit will goes with us? Today, let us rejoice that someone felt appointed and carried the good news to us.

Jesus, thank you for calling your Apostles. Show me how you would have me carry your message as I am sent out by your Holy Spirit into the nations.