"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" By the late Rev. Dr. Mary B. Johnson: Mark 3:13-16

November 14 

"Jesus went up the mountain and called to him those whom he wanted, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, and to be sent out to proclaim the message, and to have authority to cast out demons. So he appointed the twelve..."-Mark 3:13-16 (NRSV)

Jesus chose Disciples and Apostles in ancient times and is still doing so now! How do you know if you are hearing the "call" of God today? God first calls you to believe in Jesus. A deeper call gives you a growing desire to serve Christ. From multitudes following him, Jesus originally chose 12 as apostles and many more as disciples. The original 12 symbolized the 12 tribes of Israel. (Mth.19:28) This showed continuity between old religious systems and a new one based on Christ. Yet more apostles are referred to later in the Bible including Paul, Junia, etc. Apostles usually received additional training for specific missions. Yet Jesus didn't choose his disciples or apostles because of unusual faith. Their faith often faltered. He didn't choose them because of talent or ability. No one stood out with unusual ability. Both apostles and disciples came from diverse backgrounds including fishermen, tax collectors, laborers, etc. They had no greater leadership potential than others not chosen. Yet a characteristic they shared was willingness to obey Jesus. Obedience is vital since the word Apostle means "messenger." Disciple means "follower" or "apprentice". After Jesus' death, both apostles and disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and empowered to fill vital roles in growing God's Kingdom.

Don't disqualify yourself from service to Christ if you don't have impressive credentials. Success is found by following Jesus with obedient love and an open mind. Wherever you are, God is calling and has a special place for you. If you answer Christ's call prayerfully then you will be blessed beyond belief! Only you have the unique talents Christ needs today. No else can do what you can do for God! Blessings await whenever you say, "Yes, Lord, I will go!"

Prayer: Jesus, May I hear your call even more clearly. Amen.

Meditation For The Day: When God calls, only you can say "yes".

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Fall Renewal (Volume 3) Paperback – August 23, 2017 by Rev. Dr. Mary B. Johnson (Author)