The call of the Twelve, the close companions and disciples of Jesus in his public ministry, teaches us about trust in God and trust in our fellows.
In the various Gospel accounts of the call of his first disciples, who became his Apostles, the Twelve, we see how readily they responded when Jesus called. Jesus passes by, calls Andrew and Peter, James and John, Matthew the tax collector, and they follow him, leaving their boats and livelihood.
These followers of Jesus showed faith, trust and obedience to Jesus’ call: “We have found the Messiah,” (Jn 1: 41); “we found the one that Moses wrote about in the Law, and the prophets, as well: he is Jesus, son of Joseph, from Nazareth.” (Jn 1: 45)
Eventually their following and companionship grew into love of Jesus, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” (Jn 21: 15)
The call of the disciples and the naming the Twelve also show God’s great trust in men: that the saving work of his Son would be continued by fellow human beings. What is truly amazing is that God chose ordinary people for his close followers and friends, for the Twelve: “You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church.” (Mt 16: 18) “Feed my lambs,” (Jn 21: 15)
We thank God for his trust in us, of course, with his grace and great help. We thank God for our leaders in the Church and in our society.