Called and Sent: Embracing Mission in Matthew 10:1–7
"Jesus summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness... 'Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.'" – Matthew 10:1, 6
When we hear the word “mission,” we often think of faraway lands or heroic saints. But in Matthew 10:1–7, Jesus shows us that mission begins not with a map, but with a calling. Before the disciples were ever sent out, they were first summoned—personally, intentionally, and by name.
God doesn’t send strangers to do His work. He sends His friends.
The Context: After Compassion Comes Commission
In the previous chapter (Matthew 9:35–38), Jesus looked upon the crowds with deep compassion, seeing them as “sheep without a shepherd.” He identified a great harvest, but a lack of workers. Then, in this next chapter, He answers that prayer—by choosing twelve ordinary men to become extraordinary laborers in His field.
This moment marks the beginning of something sacred: the formation of the first missionary team. These are not nameless laborers; they are chosen apostles, each called by name, each entrusted with divine authority.
Jesus’ Method: Personal Call, Divine Authority
“He summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority...” – Matthew 10:1
There are three key truths here:
1. Calling Comes Before Sending
Jesus calls each disciple by name. This is no general invitation—it is a deeply personal summons. In the same way, our call to serve God flows from a personal relationship with Christ. We are known, loved, and sent.
2. Authority Is Given by Christ Alone
The apostles were not sent in their own strength. Jesus gave them His authority—to cast out demons, heal diseases, and proclaim the Kingdom. Today, we are given spiritual authority through the sacraments, prayer, and the Holy Spirit—not for power, but for mission.
3. Mission Begins Close to Home
“Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” – Matthew 10:6
Before reaching the world, the apostles were sent to their own people. Evangelization often begins in the familiar—our families, parishes, workplaces, and neighborhoods.
The Apostles: Ordinary Men, Extraordinary Mission
The list of names in Matthew 10:2–4 reminds us that Jesus chooses real people with real imperfections:
- Peter, the impulsive leader
- Matthew, the former tax collector
- Thomas, the doubter
- Judas Iscariot, who would later betray Him
And yet—Jesus called them all. He trusted them with His work, not because of their perfection, but because of His purpose.
This means there is room in His mission for you.
Our Call Today: Personal, Powerful, and Present
Jesus still calls disciples today. And He still sends them out—not always to distant countries, but often into the homes, schools, offices, and communities they already inhabit.
You Are Called
You are not an accidental Christian. Christ has summoned you by name, just as surely as He called Peter and James and John.
You Are Empowered
Through baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist, you are filled with Christ’s Spirit. You have His peace, His love, His truth to share.
You Are Sent
The mission field is not far away. It’s your coworkers, your children, your struggling friend, your lonely neighbor. These are your “lost sheep of Israel.”
Modern Applications: Living the Mission of the Twelve
In Our Homes
- Offer intentional prayer time as a family
- Have spiritual conversations with your children or spouse
- Create a home where Christ is not only mentioned, but loved and followed
In Our Churches
- Volunteer in catechesis or youth ministry
- Accompany someone going through RCIA
- Serve as a lector, choir member, or Eucharistic minister with joy and reverence
In Our Communities
- Visit the sick or elderly
- Reach out to someone who has left the Church
- Be present for those who grieve, suffer, or search for hope
In Our Digital Spaces
- Share Scripture or personal reflections online
- Post encouragement and light amid negativity
- Support and follow Catholic creators doing digital evangelization
Becoming a Missionary Disciple: Practical Steps
1. Listen for the Call
Spend time each day in silence and prayer. Ask Jesus, “Where are you sending me today?”
2. Answer with Trust
Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” The apostles weren’t ready. But they were willing. So say yes—even when it stretches you.
3. Embrace Your Authority
You don’t need to have all the answers. What you have is Christ within you. That’s enough.
4. Go Where You’re Planted
Jesus didn’t say, “Go where it’s easy.” He said, “Go to the lost sheep.” Go to the hurting, the distant, the disillusioned—even if they’re under your own roof.
Common Hesitations—and the Truths That Overcome Them
“I’m not good enough.”
Truth: Jesus called Peter, who denied Him. Matthew, who was a tax collector. You don’t need a perfect past—just a willing heart.
“I don’t know what to say.”
Truth: Jesus promised the Spirit would give us words when the time came (cf. Matthew 10:19). Trust that He will guide your speech.
“It’s not my job.”
Truth: Jesus gave the mission to the whole Church—not just priests and nuns. You, the baptized faithful, are the Church’s hands and voice in the world.
A Call to You
You have been summoned by name. You’ve been given authority—not to dominate, but to heal. Not to condemn, but to call. Not to hide, but to go.
There is a mission field waiting outside your door. You don’t need to look far. You just need to look with the eyes of Christ.
Questions for Reflection:
- Where is Jesus calling you to bring healing, hope, or truth?
- How have you been resisting the call to mission in your own life?
- What gifts has God given you that could serve others in His name?
- Who are the “lost sheep” in your life, and how can you reach them?
Prayer to Begin Your Mission:
Lord Jesus, you called your Twelve by name and entrusted them with your mission. Call me now, in the midst of my ordinary life. Give me eyes to see the people you want me to reach, and courage to step forward in love. Let me not delay or doubt, but trust that your grace is enough. Make me your laborer, your messenger, your disciple. Amen.
The harvest is still abundant. The Master is still calling.
Are you ready to be sent?