Did I not chose you?

In Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus says to his disciples, “Did I not choose you?”

 I often think it is wonderful to be chosen by somebody else. The reason why I believe is because the person who has chosen me respects me and thinks I have the skills and knowledge to undertake the task. All that remains is for me to accept the opportunity.

 Why did Jesus choose the apostles?

 I think Jesus made his choices founded on the apostle’s personalities and potential to carry on his mission. He saw the apostles as willing to listen and understand his teachings and miracles. Furthermore Jesus’ belief was that the apostles would feel motivated to carry on the teachings and build on the faith community. Hence they were chosen because they were people who had the courage and resilience to inspire others to live the Gospel today.

 Why did the apostles choose Jesus?

 I believe they were stirred by his teachings and acknowledged that by following them it would make not only a big difference to their own lives but also they could be a catalyst to change the lives of others. Thus the meaning and purpose provided by the Gospel to the apostles lives empowered them to encourage everyone they met to respect people from diverse cultures and all God’s creatures.

 God too chooses us. 

God doesn’t discriminate but invites everyone to continue Christ’s mission. Everybody has the ability to use his or her gifts and talents to build God’s kingdom on earth all you need is the desire to live the Gospel. Has Jesus said, “Many are called but few are chosen.” All we have to do is accept the invitation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Who Do You Say I Am?

 

In Matthew ‘s Gospel 16.15-16, Jesus asks his apostles, “Who do you say I am?”

Peter replies, “ You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

Then Jesus answers, “Blessed are you Simon, son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but my Father in Heaven.”

This got me to thinking whom do people say that I am and what do they base that opinion on? Do they base their opinion on my physical appearance, the way I dress and my occupation or what I say?

I believe that people’s opinions of others should be based on none of the above but through them actually building a relationship with others. Then they can form an opinion. However what will that opinion be based on?

Will it be on their view of life being similar to their own? They dress the same or share the have comparable interests? But what happens when relationships with others, family, friends or work colleagues contrast with your own? Can you overcome the challenge, refrain from judgement and see their point of view?

Furthermore the onus is on the individual to accept others interests, use language that is constructive and affirming and only challenge when it creates a positive outcome for themselves and others.

For me the model is Jesus whose teachings and miracles were always centered on everyone leading more productive lives. Lives that impact positively on everyone they encounter. I hope people can say that about me.

Next time someone asks you for your opinion of something or someone… ask yourself…. For what am I basing this opinion on?

After you’ve ask yourself this…. Then rethink your answer!!!!!