(lent) 12

12.

literally means 'two left over' or 'two remaining after 10 have been taken.'

the number of items in a dozen. 12 dozen are known as a gross.

number of Olympians, the chief Gods of the pantheon in Greek Mythology.


days of Christmas (not just a song) involves celebrating Christmas for a period of 12 days ending on the eve of epiphany.

number of months in a calendar year.

number of hours in a half day.

in Judaism, the age in which a girl matures.

jersey number of Terry Bradshaw, my childhood football idol, who played quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1970's and early 80's. he lead the Steelers to 4 Super Bowl victories, winning MVP twice. 'The Blond Bomber' as he was called once held records for the Javelin throw before playing professional football. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1989.

number of strikes needed for a perfect game in 10 pin bowling.


number of sons had by Jacob.

number of Tribes of Israel.

number of disciples of Jesus.
the twelve included:
Simon (they called him Peter, or "Rock"),
Andrew, his brother,
James, Zebedee's son,
John, his brother,
Philip,
Bartholomew,
Thomas,
Matthew, the tax man,
James, son of Alphaeus,
Thaddaeus,
Simon, the Canaanite,
Judas Iscariot (who later turned on him).

in Matthew chapter 10 Jesus gives these disciples a motivational speech... a giant word of instruction and encouragement before they were sent out.
Jesus is asking them to choose life.

vs. 5-8: go to the lost in this very neighborhood - and tell them that the kingdom is here. heal sick. raise the dead. touch the untouchable. live generously.

vs. 9-10: live simple. travel light.

vs. 11: be content.

vs. 12-15: be courteous. gentle in conversation. if you are unwelcome, don't make a scene.

vs. 16: stay alert. be cunning; prepared.

vs. 17-20: don't be naive. you will be slandered because you believe in me. don't get upset. embrace the opportunity to preach kingdom news! don't worry about what you'll say, the Spirit will supply you the words.

vs. 26-27: don't be intimidated. don't hesitate.

vs. 28: don't be bluffed into silence by bullies.

vs. 29-31: remember how much God the Father cares for you.

vs. 32-33: stand up for me against the world and i'll stand up for you before the Father in heaven.

vs. 34-37: don't think i've come to make life cozy!

vs. 38-39: forget about yourself and and look to me. you'll find both yourself and me!

vs. 40-42: start small. serve small. the smallest act of giving or receiving makes you a true apprentice. You won't lose out on a thing!

you won't lose out on life... true life.



how will you receive this same message? may you be compelled to do what Jesus asks of you.