An apostle is “one who is sent.” It is not any special gifts which set them apart, but rather the special mission they are sent to accomplish. Anyone who is sent by God is an apostle.
In my childhood, there were lots of things we were sent to do: go and fill the water pail; bring the cows home for milking; get the mail. Some of these tasks were fun, such as bringing the cows home. The walk through the forest was especially lovely and cool on a hot day. On the other hand, bringing in armloads of firewood was not so much fun, but it needed to be done so that the people we loved could be warm and cozy.
We are sent by God through Baptism. Gathered into a new life in the body of Christ we are welcomed by the congregation. We are invited to share in the mission of praising God and bringing God’s redeeming word to the world. We are sent as an apostle to live a life which points to God’s grace. Every action of caring for one another and caring for creation reflects the love of God, and witnesses to God’s promise of everlasting life.
God, our creator and guide, be with us so our life reflects your truth. Amen. —