Today is October 19

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the gospel of Mark, chapter 3.

13 Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach 15 and to have authority to drive out demons. 16 These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), 17 James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot 19 and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

“Jesus called those he wanted, and they came to him.” He picked only twelve people to be his closest disciples. If you looked at the group from the outside, it probably seemed like He didn't have much choice, that He had just taken what He could get, but He chose those men with careful prayer. He didn't choose the bravest, smartest, or even the ones with the most integrity. He chose deeply flawed people, who were from different places, different careers, and different cultures. When you consider the people the Jesus called to follow him, could you imagine yourself in this group?

What did Jesus see in this group of men? If he looked at each of them and saw his legacy, what does he see when he looks at you? Do you think he sees the same in you? As you hear the passage again, think about why Jesus chose these disciples, who were all broken in so many ways, and why he chooses you also.

As you walk through your day today, remind yourself that, just like the disciples, you are called into the company of Jesus. That he is with you and that you belong with him today.

Music Credit:
"I Belong To You" - Vineyard Worship/Samuel Lane (YouTube)