Why Twelve?

Why did Jesus choose twelve disciples? Was there some significance in that number? Could it have been because there were twelve months in the Jewish calendar, or because they divided their day into twelve hours, or because there were twelve tribes of Israel? Not at all.

We find the answer in Mark’s gospel: “that they might be with Him!” Jesus wanted His “friends” to be with Him and learn from Him. Psalm 24:14 says, “The Lord is a friend to those who fear Him. He teaches them His covenant” – His plan of salvation.

Someone once said, “A friend is a person who knows you and likes to be with you despite your faults.” This seems to go beyond “love.” Love is “doing” something for someone because, as Christians, it is our obligation.

It is a gracious thought to know that God wants us to be His “friends.” The picture represented in this verse is that of two friends sitting on a couch having a confidential conversation. What a wonderful way to think of our relationship with God: sitting next to Him and quietly talking to Him about this life and the one to come – His eternal covenant with His people – those whom He calls His friends – now and the life to come!

How amazing it is to think that we can share every thought with God as a friend. What an opportunity He offers us: to sit with Him as a friend and ask Him to teach us what His covenant is all about: His promises, His presence, His protection, His provisions, His peace – His plan for our well-being in this life and the one to come.

We can do this – be with Him –this very moment by reading His Word and allowing Him to speak to us through His Word as well as listening for His voice when we pray!  

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for being our Friend and Teacher and always being willing to share Your Words and ways with us now! How blest we are! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: The Lord is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant. Psalm 25:14 

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