WHAT YOU MAKE OF OPPORTUNITIES

Luke 6:16 Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.

Today’s text describes the calling of the twelve Apostles, presenting us with a reminder of their names and Jesus’ actions preceding this decision – His time in prayer with God. A question many often ask about this event is “if Jesus spent so long in prayer, why did He still choose Judas Iscariot?”

Jesus showed us as ‘true man’ that decisions are made in collaboration with God because that is one way to ensure we remain in alignment. That is a safety feature because when God’s approval is secured on a matter, that choice will be right. How this is achieved will differ for all, with some receiving direct inner witness of the Spirit, confirmation through men or scripture, or peace.

Yet, the verse we read tells us something important “Judas was not called as a traitor, he became one”. He was not the Apostle documented with a financial background, Matthew was the tax collector. However, in the ministry of Jesus, Judas Iscariot kept the community purse. We read in John 12:6 “Not that he cared for the poor—he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself.”

The Apostles were called to be made and then sent out. One thing worth noting is that an individual’s will matters in how they are made – they must submit to the one making them to ensure they become who he wants them to be. While others became fishers of men as the maker spoke, Judas became a traitor. Opportunities may be offered to you in diverse ways, and you can choose what becomes of them.

You can become a fisher of men or become a traitor, both under the feet of the same master.

#sly