Friday, January 24, 2020 — Second week of the Ordinary time —Gospel of Jesus-Christ according to Saint Mark 3, 13-19 — In Christ, God reconciled the world with him: he put the word of reconciliation in our mouth.

Many teachings have been given to us about how the apostles were called. One of the strong points preceding this call was the isolation of Jesus on the mountain, on the heights, in a calm atmosphere that invites recollection and prayer. This isolation means putting life into God's hands. Not only the big decisions but everything we do, our whole life. Then, it is important to be alone, to meditate alone and above all to pray in private. Let us not be satisfied with what we do together, at home or in church, but let us raise our spirits, let us pray personally to show our trust in God.

Here Jesus "called those he wanted". Vocation is therefore first of all God's will, God's choice. It is He who takes the first step. The word "those whom He wanted" means that He has immeasurable power, He can call whom He wants regardless of the dignity of the one called. Twelve are necessary, an important sign, the rebuilding of a new Israel, to perfect the old chosen people of the twelve tribes.

He called them to be with Him. This is not an immediate mission but a sharing of life first. And the more they are with Him, the more He rubs off on them. God's call is first of all sanctification of self, for one cannot sanctify without first sanctifying oneself. They are then sent to preach and do other things. But the Word of God has priority, for it is through the Word that the building is done.

The apostles were mentioned one by one by their names, it is to tell us that each one is called individually. It is also in his own name that one must answer, rather than taking refuge in the mass. God has a plan for each one of us. He calls every day, and it is up to us to answer: "Here I am, send me".