I have talked about the Chosen series that I have been watching in a few of my homilies. The Chosen is a television series created, directed and co-written by Christian filmmaker Dallas Jenkins. It is the first multiseason series about the life and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth. Primarily set in Judaea and Galilee in the 1st century, the series centers on Jesus, the apostles, and the different people who met and followed him.
In the first season Jesus picks his Twelve apostles and makes himself known to them. In this portrayal I found it interesting how ordinary they were. In fact it was amazing to me how each one had their own challenges, issues, and sinfulness. As the season’s go on, we find out why Jesus picked each apostle. We get a glimpse of how he helps them transform but ultimately leaves it up to them to follow him.
This series is in its third season and we continue to see what Jesus is doing with each one of them along with the bigger picture of his life. What I found interesting with how they came to follow Jesus, and accepted him was never one instance. Their acceptance was gradual not “I am following him!” and off they went. There were times that they questioned if they should follow him at all. In season three Peter (the rock!) is struggling with family issues and he is mad at Jesus for not helping with his situation while he is curing others.
Jesus understands Peter’s and all their potential but never forces them to follow him. He allows the struggles, pains, tears, and their own sinfulness. In the end they have to make the decision of whether they will ultimately give their life to the mission or walk away. We all know what happens from Scripture, and this series representation is just that. We truly don’t know what went on in their lives as they followed Jesus but we do know these men were not perfect and none of us are. We know for example from scripture that Peter was a hot head, and Judas decide to betray Jesus.
So what can we take away from this. Well it goes back to my original question at the top. “Would Jesus pick me?” I think all of us would like to think so but deep down if we really look at ourselves, and be honest, would he?
Jesus saw the potential in each one of his disciples, and he sees the potential in each one of us. Ultimately, they all followed except Judas. Why did they follow? Because Peter said it best in John 6:68-70: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life. We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God.”
We to have the opportunity as Peter did in his confession of faith. If you took the time to read last weeks Deacon Corner, we profess the Nicene Creed at the beginning of Mass; our confession of faith. Jesus knows our potential and in fact he knows if we will say yes, but gives us the free will to make that decision. We truly are no different than the disciples in that we struggle, sin, and fall short.
The real question is: will you follow? Will you put him first in your life? We have to ask ourselves these questions and decide. Our faith is a journey of many decisions but we need to ask ourselves are we a disciple or a Judas. I think Jesus said it best in John 15:16 Jesus says, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.”
I pray that you will pray to give your life to his mission, and put Jesus first in your life.
Blessings,
Deacon Mike