“As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him.” Matthew 9:9
“As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him.” Matthew 4:18-20
We are all called to be disciples of Jesus. Disciple means to be a “follower, adherent, disciple, partisan mean one who gives full loyalty and support to another.”
But, more importantly, we are called to be apostles. Apostle means “sent ones.” We are anointed by Jesus at our baptism to go out into the world and “make disciples of all peoples.”
We are going upward hand in hand the light, because God is calling us to Himself. Our ambitions and life must always be to lock our gaze upon this summit. Nothing else matters.
We must learn and grow to be single minded. Focused singularly upon God and eternity. This learning comes to us as His disciples. Our Master will instruct and guide us along the paths we must walk at the end of which lies the Kingdom and throne of God.
But, along the way, we must become apostles. Jesus has called each of us be name to follow Him and then sends us forth to call others and lead them to Him as well. This is the great commission, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20
Not a saint (yet)? No worries, Jesus seems to have a habit of calling those who don’t stand out or show special skills. But, Jesus knows to whom He makes His call heard. He knows that all it takes is that person’s yes to change history. You may not be called to lead the church as Peter was. Your call may be something as ‘simple’ as speaking to just one person about what you know of the Lord. That may sound simple and unexciting when compared to some saint stories, but, for the soul who you are asked to speak – this can change everything.
Say yes. If God is calling you to be an apostle and “make disciples”, He will give you the charisms and even the words to succeed.