"Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, '...Go rather to the lost sheep.'"
—Matthew 10:5–6
Have you ever been called to something that felt bigger than you? Felt that fire burning within you, knowing this is what God is calling you to, yet at the same time feeling nervous, afraid… afraid that you are not equipped for what lies ahead?
Perhaps you can relate.
Sixteen years ago, I took a leap of faith when I changed careers and began working in parish ministry. I had been teaching at a Catholic school, but I felt a restlessness, a gentle nudge from God leading me in a different direction. I went on retreat, and there the feeling only grew stronger.
A few days after I returned from the retreat, our parish Director of Religious Education told me she was retiring and thought I should apply for the position. I was dumbfounded. I had been sensing God calling me to something different, but was this it? An entire parish? I wasn’t sure I was equipped for the mission.
This same question echoes in today’s Gospel, where Jesus summons the Twelve and sends them on a mission. He sends them to proclaim, “The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand”. He gives them authority over unclean spirits, to drive them out, and to cure every disease and illness.
I have often wondered if any of the apostles doubted themselves. Did they question their abilities? Did they wonder if they were worthy of such a mission?
Jesus called twelve ordinary people. Each was unique…different backgrounds, personalities, habits, strengths, and weaknesses. Matthew was an affluent tax collector. Simon the Zealot despised Roman rule and believed in resistance. James and John were called the “Sons of Thunder”. Peter could be outspoken and impulsive. John was known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” They were all deeply human…with frailties, wounds, fears, strength and conviction.
Webster's dictionary defines an apostle as “one who is sent on a mission.”
That is exactly who they became.
Jesus did not focus on their limitations. He saw their potential. He sent them to the lost sheep of Israel, to proclaim the love of God and the nearness of God’s Kingdom. They were no longer simply passive learners sitting at the feet of Jesus. They were transformed into active disciples, people on the move.
The same is true for us.
Through our baptism, we are called to share in Christ’s mission as priest, prophet and king. We too, are called to active discipleship. We are called to be people on the move, seeking the lost sheep wherever they may be. That call may look different depending on our age, vocation, health or circumstances, but remains woven into our souls.
When I was called into parish ministry, I had fears and doubts. I questioned whether I was enough. God did not ask me to have all the answers. I was simply asked to say yes. In saying yes, I discovered that God does not call the equipped. He equips the called.
The same Jesus who called the Twelve continues to call each one of us today. May we have the courage to trust, to follow and proclaim with our lives that the Kingdom of God is at hand.
Susan Breton is a member of the C21 Center's Pray It Forward community. She offered the above reflection on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. It is shared with her permission.