Gospel
Luke 6:12-19
12 Jesus departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. 13 When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: 14 Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, 16 and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. 17 And he came down with them and stood on a stretch of level ground. A great crowd of his disciples and a large number of the people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coastal region of Tyre and Sidon 18 came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and even those who were tormented by unclean spirits were cured. 19 Everyone in the crowd sought to touch him because power came forth from him and healed them all.
Historical Background
This passage takes place early in Jesus’ public ministry, likely in Galilee, near the Sea of Gennesaret. Jesus had already begun teaching and healing, drawing large crowds.
The act of choosing twelve apostles was deeply symbolic. It echoed the twelve tribes of Israel, signaling a new spiritual foundation for God's people.
Roman occupation created tension and longing for a messianic deliverer. Many Jews expected a political savior, but Jesus’ actions pointed to a spiritual kingdom.
Theological Context
Jesus spent the entire night in prayer before making a major decision. This models dependence on the Father and the importance of spiritual discernment.
The apostles were ordinary men—fishermen, a tax collector, even a zealot. Their diversity shows that Jesus calls people from all walks of life to follow Him.
Jesus’ power to heal and cast out demons reveals His divine authority and compassion. His ministry was holistic—addressing both spiritual and physical needs.
Learning Lessons
Jesus’ power flowed from His relationship with the Father. Stay rooted in Him. He didn’t just preach—He healed. Our faith must be active in love.
Before big decisions, seek God’s guidance like Jesus did. Just as Jesus chose the Twelve, He calls each of us uniquely. You are not forgotten.
“The Mountain and the Multitude”
Upon the mountain, silence deep,
The Savior knelt, no time for sleep.
He prayed through night, the stars aglow,
For hearts to lead, for seeds to sow.
He called the Twelve with purpose clear,
To walk with Him, to draw them near.
From every tribe, a mirror cast,
A new beginning from the past.
He stepped below, the crowd did wait,
With wounds and hopes, with heavy weight.
His touch brought life, His voice gave peace,
From fear and pain, they found release.
O Lord who prays, who heals, who calls,
Lift us when doubt and darkness falls.
Let us be vessels, brave and true,
To share Your love in all we do.
Lord Jesus,
You withdrew to the mountain to pray, teach me to seek the Father’s will in silence and surrender. You chose the Twelve with love and purpose, remind me that I, too, am called—uniquely, intentionally, eternally. You healed the broken and cast out darkness, touch my heart and restore what is wounded within me. Let Your power flow through me—not for my glory, but for the healing of others and the building of Your Kingdom.
Amen.
Pericope:
IV: The Ministry in Galilee
THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE / MINISTERING TO A GREAT MULTITUDE
Luke 6:12-16 / 17-19
Gospel Acclamation
I chose you from the world, that you may go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot