How Jesus prayed and chose His disciples

Short reflection on Jesus choosing his 1st disciples and followed by Apostles 

 Synopsis:- [ Mt 4:18-22; Mt 9:9-13]

> Jesus calls Simon and Andrew while they had just retired for the day from fishing

> Jesus calls Levi or Matthew while he was sitting at the tax booth

> Before both incidents Jesus prayed in a deserted place or mountains

> Finally Jesus appoints Apostles

 Reflection:-

(1) The call of Jesus came to Simon, Andrew and Levi while they were busy with their own jobs. We too sometimes feel like once we are old we can work for the Lord, whilst the old people say the younger generation is full of energy and so they can serve God. The call can come anytime, but we need to respond it soon. Or else it will be a misscall. There is a huge difference between the one who chooses to follow Christ alone and others later and the one who keeps his foot in two boats. In the exhortation of Pope Francis' call to holiness he says that, one must be faithful to his/her duties. If you are married then take care of your spouse and if you are a kid then honor your parents.

One biggest characteristic feature to note is that Jesus is seen praying at a deserted place or a mountain before choosing any of the disciples and upgrading 12 to Apostles. Do we pray before selecting our leaders?? Or just vote by influence of others?? If Jesus being the Son of God could pray, then why can't we?? When you pray, it is like you are conversing with God, and one of the greatest means to pray is by gift of tongues.  For those who speak in a tongue do not speak to other people but to God; for nobody understands them, since they are speaking mysteries in the Spirit. 2 cor. 14:2. We don't see Jesus praying at any temple or other places because those days it would be filled with people and the y would bother Him. Jesus always spent private time with God. Now, these mountain or deserted place are symbolical. What it actually means is that, deserting all that's worrying you, things that you are thinking about, etc and keeping your mind focused on heavenly things. So when you are alone and at peace, you will fill the presence of the Holy Spirit. If you cannot concentrate than just surrender all that's worrying you in the hands of your mighty God. He can do all things only if you have faith that He can. So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received[a] it, and it will be yours. Mk 11:24 

(2) Tax collectors in those days were called "public sinners" and no one would associate with them during those times. But we see Jesus eating with them which no one had done yet. Jesus loves sinners but hates sin. If you are a sinner know that Jesus loves you. It's only that you need to ask Jesus to be with you to fight your sin. When Jesus heard this, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.” Mk 2:17

Praise be to the Name of Jesus❤