Not every disciple became famous

St. Simon and Jude

We know little about Simon and Jude.  Simon the “zealot” or Cananean is mentioned, but he is never mentioned apart from the list of apostles.  Jude, sometimes called Thaddeaus, is also mentioned in lists of the twelve.  At the last supper Jude asked Jesus why he had chosen to reveal himself to the disciples but not to the world.  Jesus had just told the disciples that in a little while the world won’t see him anymore, “but you will see me. “  Jesus says that whoever loves him (believes in him) will be loved in turn by the Father and himself.  They will come and make their home with that person.  Jesus then promises that the Holy Spirit will come and teach them and bring to remembrance what he has said.

 A traditional story about Simon and Jude says that they traveled together on a missionary journey to Persia and were both martyred there.

 The prayer for the Day numbers Simon and Jude among the apostles noting that they were faithful and zealous in their mission.  There is a comfort to us who will be little known a generation beyond our life.  Like Simon and Jude we have a mission to make known the love and mercy of Christ, though we will never have the lasting notoriety of Paul, or Peter or Martin Luther.

Almighty God, You chose Your servants Simon and Jude to be numbered among the glorious company of the apostles.  As they were faithful and zealous in their mission so may we with ardent devotion make known the love and mercy of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.