He appointed twelve

Jesus could have chosen anyone to be his closest followers. He could have gathered the most respected religious scholars, wealthy patrons, or powerful leaders who could open doors for his mission.

Instead, he went up on a mountain and called to himself the ones he wanted. "He appointed twelve of them, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons."

The twelve were a surprising group. Several were fishermen. One was a tax collector who had worked for the Romans. Another was a Zealot, who had probably hated the Romans. One would betray him. They argued about who was the greatest, and they often misunderstood what he was teaching.

Notice the first purpose of their calling: "to accompany Him". Before they preached a sermon or healed anyone, they were simply to be with Jesus. Only then would they be sent out.

The number twelve was no accident. It echoed the twelve tribes of Israel. Jesus was forming a renewed people of God around himself.

He still calls ordinary, flawed people today. And he still begins by inviting them to be with him.

Reflect

• Does it encourage me that Jesus chose such ordinary and imperfect people, and what does that say about his call on my own life?
• Am I spending unhurried time simply being "with Him", or am I trying to do things for Jesus without first being with him?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for calling ordinary, imperfect people like me to follow you. Draw me into your presence before I rush into serving you. Shape me as I spend time with you, and then send me out to share your love with the people around me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.