In Luke 6:12-19, we see Jesus choosing His twelve apostles and engaging in a powerful ministry of healing and teaching. This passage highlights the importance of selecting faithful leaders and ministering to the needs of the people. It invites us to reflect on the qualities of effective leadership and the nature of Jesus’ ministry.
Scripture Reading:
“It happened in those days, that he went out to the mountain to pray, and he continued all night in prayer to God. When it was day, he called his disciples, and from them he chose twelve, whom he also named apostles: Simon, whom he also named Peter; and his brother Andrew; and James; and John; and Philip; and Bartholomew; and Matthew; and Thomas; and James the son of Alphaeus; and Simon who was called the Zealot; and Judas the son of James; and Judas Iscariot, who also became a traitor. He came down with them, and stood on a level place, with a crowd of his disciples, and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem, and the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, who came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; as well as those who were troubled by unclean spirits; and they were being healed. All the multitude sought to touch him, for power came out from him, and healed them all.” — Luke 6:12-19 (WEBBE)
Reflection: This passage reveals a crucial moment in Jesus’ ministry as He chooses twelve apostles from among His disciples. The decision to select these twelve was preceded by an entire night of prayer, highlighting the importance of seeking God’s guidance in significant decisions. The apostles were chosen to be Jesus’ closest followers and to carry forward His mission after His ascension.
Jesus’ choice of apostles, including a diverse group of individuals with different backgrounds, underscores the inclusiveness and intentionality of His ministry. Each apostle had a role to play in the expansion of the early Church, demonstrating that God uses people from various walks of life for His purposes.
Following the selection of the apostles, Jesus’ ministry continues with a focus on healing and teaching. The multitude from various regions seeks Jesus for healing, and His power is evident in the way He heals those with diseases and unclean spirits. This highlights the compassion and power of Jesus’ ministry, as well as the importance of meeting both spiritual and physical needs.
Reflecting on this passage challenges us to consider how we approach leadership and ministry in our own lives. Are we seeking God’s guidance in our decisions? Are we compassionate and inclusive in our approach to serving others?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of Your careful selection of the apostles and Your compassionate ministry to the people. Help us to seek Your guidance in our decisions and to approach leadership with wisdom and inclusiveness. Grant us the compassion to meet the needs of others and the strength to follow Your example in serving those around us. May Your power and healing flow through us as we seek to reflect Your love and grace. In Your name, Amen.
Action Plan:
- Seek Guidance: Spend time in prayer when making important decisions, seeking God’s direction and wisdom.
- Embrace Inclusiveness: Consider how you can include and support a diverse group of people in your community or ministry efforts.
- Serve with Compassion: Look for opportunities to meet the physical and spiritual needs of those around you. Practice acts of kindness and healing, reflecting Jesus’ example in your daily interactions.
Thoughts for Contemplation:
- How can I better seek God’s guidance in the decisions I make?
- In what ways can I be more inclusive and supportive in my leadership and ministry efforts?
- How am I currently serving others, and what changes can I make to be more compassionate and effective?
As you contemplate these questions, seek to align your actions with Jesus’ example, embracing His guidance in leadership and His compassion in ministry.
The thing about hope is that it’s a positive force that shines the most when it’s dark. When everything’s going well, we hardly notice it’s there. But when things go against us, when our dreams fade and when we see no immediate reprieve from our troubles, that’s when hope does its best work for us.
"Where Hope Can Be Found"