….Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted
and they came to him.

He appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles,
that they might be with him
and he might send them forth to preach
and to have authority to drive out demons…. 

I try and imagine spending time with the Apostles and all they experienced. They did not hesitate to follow Jesus and although they displayed doubt, had periods of anger and betrayal they also grew in their faith, love and holiness for Jesus, each other and to all whom they encountered. Although we do not have the Apostles of yesterday are we not all called to be disciples? To share and be teachers of the word. To pray and spend devoted time with our Lord Jesus. Praying the examen, quiet reflection. Focused meditation is as important to a daily routine as is work, family and recreation time. These devotional times provide an opportunity to remember how Jesus loves us and invites us to remember and bask in the warmth of this love.

“Love one another as I have loved you” (John 13: 34-35). Jesus loves us in a way we do not understand and commands us to love one another. We must be responsive to this command so we can have the type of relationship with Jesus that serves a greater purpose. If we are not responsive, we must ask why? What are the barriers and challenges to openly loving Jesus and one another?  Remember the commandment “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31) and ask Jesus to remove these barriers.