12 Apostles and their Significance

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twenty Third Week :  Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:12-19*

*First Reading : Col 2:6-15*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 145:1b-2, 8-9, 10-11*

*12 Apostles and their Significance*

*1) Symbolic Reconstitution of Israel*

The number 12 is not arbitrary—it mirrors the 12 tribes of Israel.

Jesus is signaling that He is initiating a new covenant, a renewed people of God.

Just as the 12 tribes formed the foundation of Old Testament Israel, the apostles are the foundation of the new people of God—the Church.

*2) Chosen through Prayer*

Jesus spends the entire night in prayer before choosing them (v.12), showing the seriousness and intentionality of the decision.

This emphasizes the divine guidance behind the selection—it’s not political or social, but spiritually discerned.

*3) From Disciples to Apostles*

“Disciple” means learner or follower, but “apostle” means “one who is sent.”

This shift highlights their missionary calling—they are to represent Jesus, preach, heal, and cast out demons (Mark 3:14-15).

They’re not just students, but ambassadors of the kingdom

*4) Diverse Backgrounds*

The group includes fishermen (Peter, Andrew), a tax collector (Matthew), a zealot (Simon), and eventually a traitor (Judas).

This shows that Jesus calls people from all walks of life—no one is beyond His call.

Their transformation becomes a testimony of grace and a model for discipleship.

*5) Highlights*

*A)The Role of Prayer in Decision-Making*

Jesus models dependence on God by praying before major decisions. How often do we seek God's will in our choices with the same intensity?

*B) God Uses the Ordinary*

These men were not scholars or political leaders—they were ordinary, even flawed. Yet they were entrusted with an extraordinary mission. This reminds us that God qualifies the called, rather than calling the qualified.

*C) Unity in Diversity*

Despite different political views (e.g., tax collector vs. zealot), they are united in Christ. The Church today can reflect on this as a call to unity amid diversity.

*D) Faithfulness Over Fame*

Some apostles, like Peter and John, are well-known. Others, like Thaddeus or James the son of Alphaeus, are barely mentioned again. Yet all were chosen. Every role in God’s kingdom matters, even the quiet, behind-the-scenes ones.

*E) Betrayal Within*

Judas Iscariot is listed among the Twelve. His inclusion is a sobering reminder that proximity to Jesus does not guarante faithfulness. Vigilance, humility, and perseverance are needed in discipleship.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*