Over the next few months, we will look at each of Jude’s fellow Apostles (or indeed all of them). This week, Carmelite Friar, Br. Paul de Groot is reflecting on the Apostles.
The Apostle to the Apostles
by Br Paul de Groot, O.Carm
Who walked with Jesus,
tended to his needs
and understood His message of love?
Who grieved as Jesus was crucified?
Who helped to lay His body to rest?
Who was the first witness to the resurrection?
Who took the message of hope to the other apostles?
Was it Peter or Andrew, John, or Jude?
Who did we stand on the streets during lockdown to clap for?
Who cares for those infirm and isolated,
collects our rubbish,
fills the shelves with food,
and delivers our petrol?
Can you name just one of them?
Maybe Boris, Pritti, Rishi, Sir Keir?
Let us pray...
Creator God in these strange uncertain times,
Let us remember with gratitude
Mary Magdalene, the apostle to the apostles
and especially all those others, usually women
who quietly oil the wheels of our society
and inspire us with hope and joy for the future.
Why not find out more about the Apostles? We would recommend you read some of these excellent books or articles:
- Jesus of Nazareth by Pope Benedict XVI
- Truly the Son of God - Joseph Chalmers, O.Carm
- A New Hope: Book II
- The Apostles: 12 Men Who Followed Jesus
- Reflection on Saint Paul
- Reflection on Saint Philip
- Reflection on Saint John
- Prayer cards for the Twelve Apostles
Pictured: Oil painting illustrating a scene with Jesus and his disciples on a meadow. Credit:Dan Comaniciu (I stock photo.com)
