Read Luke 9:1
When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases,
Read John 15:16a
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last
Can you remember back to your childhood – standing on the edge of a playing field, as one by one, those who were gathered were chosen to be on one team or the other? As the memories come back to you, maybe you smile because you remembered a time you were picked first. But maybe you shook your head because all too often you were picked somewhere near the bottom or dead last. Whatever the memory holds for you, I think it is safe to say that having your name called feels pretty wonderful!
In Luke 9, we see Jesus getting ready for the “big game.” To get his team ready, first, he has to put together a roster, and so he calls his disciples together. This rag-tag bunch of guys probably wouldn’t have been on anyone’s scouting report as must-have team members to spread the gospel and heal the sick. But Jesus saw something no one else did. He called each of them to come. He trained them, and then, as we see in today’s verse…He called them again. This time, he put them in the game!
Unlike choosing players to field a kickball team – where players wait and hope their athletic abilities are good enough to be chosen, Jesus chooses first and then equips those he has chosen. This is great news for the disciples…and for us!
Spend some time today thanking God that he does the choosing … and that he chooses you!
