Jesus appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles. The Twelve were meant to signify the New Israel. Just as the first Israel consisted of the twelve sons of Jacob so naming the Apostles was a statement that Jesus was doing something new. Did you ever wonder about those who were not named as part of the twelve. We know there were some because when Matthias was selected to replace Judas the criteria said that the successor had to have been with the company from the time of the Baptism and been a witness to the Resurrection. That serves as a good reminder that we should not be concerned about what others are called to do but instead use our gifts and talents as God intends
