The apostles are sent by Jesus Christ, living witnesses of His message of salvation

Today, as we celebrate these two Apostles, we highlight two things. First, that night Jesus spent praying for those He was about to choose. A whole night! Let us think: how many nights must Jesus have spent praying for me? Because in the Church we are all apostles—there are no players and spectators here: “everyone” plays the game with Jesus Christ. —Second, it is striking to see in the same group of chosen men both a “supporter” of the Roman Empire—Matthew—and Simon, who was “opposed” to Roman rule. God calls everyone. And “everyone” means “everyone”: that is how God is!