Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children
I have a friend who often uses the phrase, “God does not call the qualified; God qualifies the called.” Our gospel message today speaks decisively to this exact sentiment. “Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted and they came to him” (Mk 3:13). Saints and sinners alike throughout history have questioned their value and worthiness to be a disciple of Christ. St. Therese of Lisieux described that “he does not call those who are worthy, but those whom he pleases.” We should also note that the initiative completely comes from Jesus. He summoned “those whom he wanted.” They were “to be with him” – as disciples and friends “to be sent forth.” Like the apostles, each of us is called by name; we are called into a profoundly personal and intimate relationship with Jesus. It is when we allow him to look on us in this way that we get a sense of our deepest significance and personal worth. Jesus called twelve ordinary people to help carry out his mission, to share the good news.
Today happens to be the Feast Day of Blessed William Chaminade, founder of the Society of Mary (the Marianists). One of the key components of the Marianist charism is Mary’s ‘Yes’ in response to the mission of bringing Christ to the world. Mary, the first disciple, is a powerful example of responding to being called by God. Similarly, the apostles show up on that mountain and respond with their own ‘Yes’ to bringing Christ to the world. The apostles set the standard; they went up the mountain with Jesus, “that they might be with him.” They followed Jesus away from the hustle and bustle of their lives to hear what he had to say. And in response, they went forth to preach; the apostles listened and acted. It is not enough to simply check in with God and get His two cents; we are called for more. There is no call without a corresponding mission. What is Christ calling me to at this moment? In what ways am I bringing Christ to those in my daily life? Am I prepared to say yes? God created you and called you to be here in this exact moment in the life of your community and the world beyond it. Each of us has the power to love, be kind, and act for positive change. In Him, “Kindness and truth shall meet, justice and peace shall kiss” (Ps 85:11). God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Alleluia. We have been summoned to be disciples that think like Jesus, talk like Jesus, and act like Jesus. Let us respond with a resounding, ‘Yes!’
Blessings,
Brandon Meyer