Saint Matthias, Apostle

Acts 1:15-17.20-26; Psalm: 112; Jn 15:9-17

In today’s readings, we are presented with the story of the selection of St. Matthias as one of the twelve apostles. The readings provide us with insights into the process and significance of choosing a new apostle to replace Judas Iscariot, who had betrayed Jesus. In today’s first reading, Peter stands up among the believers to address the issue of Judas’ betrayal and the need to choose a replacement. He quotes scripture to justify the replacement of Judas, emphasizing the importance of filling the empty place among the twelve apostles.

The readings also highlight the importance of prayer and discernment in the selection of St. Matthias. In today’s first reading, the apostles pray and seek guidance from God in choosing the new apostle. They cast lots to determine the will of God, which ultimately led to the selection of Matthias. This illustrates the reliance of the early Christian community on divine guidance in making important decisions and appointments within the church.

The selection of St. Matthias is significant as he becomes one of the twelve apostles, who are chosen to spread the teachings of Jesus and to establish the early Christian church. St. Matthias is seen as a faithful and dedicated disciple who was willing to follow Jesus and serve his mission. His selection demonstrates the importance of being faithful and obedient to God’s Will when called to serve in leadership roles within the church.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus emphasizes the importance of love and friendship among his disciples. He calls them friends and commands them to love one another as he has loved them. This message of love and unity is central to the teachings of Jesus and is reflected in the selection of St. Matthias as a new apostle. The apostles’ decision to choose Matthias is based on their love and commitment to Jesus’ mission and their desire to continue his work on earth.

St. Matthias serves as an example of someone who responded to God’s call with faith and obedience. He was willing to take on the responsibility of being an apostle and to spread the message of Jesus to the world. His selection reminds us of the importance of being open to God’s will and ready to serve when called upon. St. Matthias’ faithfulness and dedication to Jesus’ mission inspire us to follow his example and to be faithful and obedient to God’s call in our own lives.

The story of St. Matthias also reminds us of the importance of community and unity within the church. The apostles worked together to decide to choose Matthias as a new apostle, and they did so in prayer and discernment. This collaborative effort demonstrates the importance of seeking God’s will together and working in unity to fulfill the mission of the church.

St. Matthias’ selection as an apostle also highlights the significance of each individual’s role within the church. Just as St. Matthias was chosen to fill a specific role among the twelve apostles, each of us has a unique role to play in the body of Christ. Our gifts and talents are meant to be used for the glory of God and the building up of the church. St. Matthias’ story challenges us to discern our own callings and to be willing to step up and serve when called upon.

In conclusion, today’s readings provide us with valuable insights into the process of selecting St. Matthias as one of the twelve apostles. The story of St. Matthias reminds us of the importance of prayer, discernment, and obedience to God’s will in making important decisions within the church. His faithfulness and dedication to Jesus’ mission serve as an example for us to follow in our own lives. St. Matthias’ selection as an apostle also emphasizes the importance of love, unity, and community within the church, as we work together to fulfill the mission of spreading the message of Jesus to the world.