In this passage we read of Jesus’s invitation to His first disciples. It describes how He called those with whom He wanted to minister. The call He gave to these first disciples is the same call He gives to us today: to follow Him. What does that mean? Let’s take a closer look at these verses. First, we are to enjoy His presence. Mark 3:14 states, “They were to accompany him” (NLT). Jesus calls us to follow Him so that we might have fellowship with Him. We are to learn from His life. We are to spend time in His presence. Second, we are to expand His purpose. Mark 3:14 continues, “He would send them out to preach” (NLT). Enjoying Jesus’s presence empowers us to be an extension of His life and teaching. It puts us in touch with His greater purpose. And, finally, we are to experience His power. Mark 3:15 reveals that God sent the disciples out with His power, “giving them authority to cast out demons” (NLT). They were given authority to be Christ’s disciples. God provides us with everything we need to live out the journey He has called us to. We are called today to show our friends, family members, coworkers—everyone we encounter throughout our day—who Jesus is and how to follow Him. We can direct people to Jesus through our actions. If we live and love like Jesus, we bring people to know Him.

Consider these questions as you reflect on today’s reading:

Do you think Jesus’ selection of the apostles was random, or did God guide Jesus to select the chosen twelve? Why?

Why was it important that the apostles were asked to “accompany” Jesus?

What do you think the passage means when it says the apostles were given “authority to cast out demons” (Mark 3:15 NLT)?