Friday, January 21, 2022

Commentary: Mark 3:13-19

He appointed the Twelve: Simon, whom he named Peter; James, son of Zebedee, and John the brother James, whom he names Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder; Andrew son of Alphaeus; Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him.

Jesus, when I am reminded in this passage of how you knowingly selected Judas as one of your apostles, it is sometimes hard not to wonder why. But I know that Judas was free and could have chosen to do the right thing, just as I am free and capable of betraying you. Really the only difference between me and Judas is that I am choosing right now to always, no matter how many times I have to, to seek your mercy. If there is one thing I want to leave my children, it is the example of confidence that your love is greater than any sin I commit.

Today as thousands March for Life in Washington, D.C., think of the massive difference it would make if every man and woman who was guilty of abortion had the courage to abandon themselves to Christ’s mercy. That is our prayer today.