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Gospel Matthew 10:1-7 |
1 Jesus summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness. 2 The names of the Twelve Apostles are these: first, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus; 4 Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus. 5 Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, “Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. 6 Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”
When God calls someone, He equips them with what’s needed—not just skills, but spiritual authority. Our mission to “Go to the lost sheep” isn't just a directive—it reflects God’s deep compassion for those who wander. We should begin where we are, with those closest to us at home.
“Go to the Lost”
He called by name, each weathered heart,
Not polished stones, but lives torn apart.
He gave them power—not of flesh,
But holy fire to heal and refresh.
“Go,” He said, “to kin estranged,
To hearts confused and paths deranged.
Speak not of thrones or worldly fame,
But of a Kingdom without shame.
Touch the sick and raise the dead,
Let grace and truth be boldly spread.
As lambs among the wolves you’ll tread—
Yet walk in peace, by Spirit led.”
Lord Jesus,
You sent Your twelve with purpose clear: to heal, restore, and proclaim Your reign. I thank You for Your compassion toward the lost, the weary, the overlooked.
Grant me the grace to answer Your call with courage and mercy, with boldness rooted in humility. Teach me to begin where I stand, to walk gently with authority You provide, to speak of a Kingdom not built by hands but alive in hearts transformed by love.
May I carry Your mission faithfully, as Your servant and witness, bearing Your light to those in need.
Amen.
Historical Background
In Jewish context, the number twelve likely symbolizes the twelve tribes of Israel—signaling restoration and continuity with God’s covenant people.
This scene unfolds after Jesus has been ministering among the crowds, healing diseases and casting out demons. Now, He chooses twelve men to carry forward His mission. These twelve disciples are empowered with spiritual authority to heal, cleanse, and proclaim—functions usually associated with prophets and priests.
Theological Context
Jesus transfers His authority to the disciples. It reflects His divine mission and opens a path for shared spiritual labor. He directs them to the “lost sheep of Israel,” highlighting God's covenant faithfulness and unfolding plan of salvation. The central message they carry is that “the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This echoes both urgency and divine nearness.
Pericope:
III. Ministry and Mission in Galilee
THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE / THE COMMISSIONING OF THE TWELVE
Matthew 10:1-5 / 5-15
Gospel Acclamation
The Kingdom of God is at hand: repent and believe in the Gospel.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
