The Calling of the Apostles St. James and St. John (1839) - Catholic Coloring Page

The story of "The Calling of the Apostles St. James and St. John" is an important biblical narrative that holds significant theological and spiritual implications.

Biblical Account:
In the New Testament, specifically in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, there's a recounting of the calling of James and John, the sons of Zebedee. They were fishermen by profession, and when Jesus saw them, they were in a boat mending their nets with their father. Jesus called out to them, and they immediately left their boat and their father to follow Him.

Significance and Meaning:

1. Immediate Response: The immediate response of James and John to Jesus's call is symbolic of the absolute commitment and unwavering faith that discipleship requires. They didn't hesitate or deliberate; they simply left everything behind to follow Jesus.
2. Sacrifice: Their decision to leave their profession and their family speaks to the sacrifices that sometimes have to be made in order to follow a higher calling or purpose. This story underscores the idea that following Jesus may mean giving up comfort, security, and even family ties.
3. Divine Calling: The story emphasizes that the call to discipleship is initiated by Jesus Himself. It's not based on human merit or qualifications but solely on God's grace and purpose.
4. Transformation: James and John, who were once fishermen, later became "fishers of men". This transformation from a worldly profession to a spiritual mission underscores the transformative power of Jesus's teachings and His ability to repurpose lives for divine work.
5. Relatability: The professions of the apostles (fishermen, tax collectors, etc.) made them relatable to the everyday people of their time. It signified that Jesus's message was for everyone, regardless of their social or economic status.
6. Titles: James and John were also known as the "Sons of Thunder" (Boanerges). This could reflect their passionate and fiery nature, which was evident in various biblical stories, such as when they wanted to call down fire from heaven on a village that rejected Jesus.

In art, the calling of St. James and St. John, like the calling of other apostles, often symbolizes the universal call to faith and service. Artists may emphasize different aspects of the story, such as the moment of the call, the reaction of the apostles, or the contrast between their former and new lives. The depiction serves as a visual reminder of the transformative power of faith and the sacrifices that come with true discipleship.