01/02/2023

Jesus chose 12 of his disciples to preach to others what they had learnt from him. 

The Mission given by Jesus to the 12 is to follow up on his teaching to the villages by putting themselves into the hands of providence and, without making any worldly preparations, become preachers of repentance to the villages of Galilee.

The villagers to whom the 12 preached were mainly Jews who were familiar with the Old Testament and who for centuries had known themselves to be chosen by God . The soil which they tilled was holy and the produce was for themselves and their families only. They knew that God willed it that they should govern themselves and not be under the yoke of idolaters no matter how powerful.

"We have found the Messiah" are Andrew's words to Peter after spending some time with John the Baptist who had pointed out Jesus to him and his companion. We have no record of what words the12 preached. but the totality of the message was no greater than "God is with us" for they, as had Andrew, had found the Messiah, "the Lamb of God".

At first the disciples hoped for a return to the days of David and Solomon for their expected "Messiah" was to rule for a thousand years. The mysterious "Lamb of God" was not to be understood until Jesus had completed his Mission for Father, Son and Holy Spirit, he is our Way, Truth and Life and although our Saviour and King, his Kingdom is not of this world.

Dear Lord, let me heed the words of David and be wise as Solomon to resist the tendency to sin that not only mars my life but crucifies Jesus your only begotten. We are all known by you in the timeless infinity that is Father, Son and Holy Spirit, unconfined Love and Mercy. Let my prayers  join those of Mary and all the Saints in unending praise and pleas for the Mercy that will overcome all my sinfulness and bring forgiveness to all sinners who repent and accept the Justice of your punishment in this world and in Purgatory.