Feast of St. Matthias, Apostle
Acts 1:15-17, 20-26 | Ps. 113:1-8 | Jn. 15:9-17
Today, the reading from Acts relates the story of the choosing of Matthias, whose feast we celebrate, to take the place of Judas. Two were named–Joseph, called Barsabas, and Matthias. The apostles prayed to the Holy Spirit and then drew lots. Matthias was chosen. Jesus tells us of His great love for us. He tells us that as the Father has loved Him so He loves us. This is a great statement to ponder. Can you imagine how much God loved Jesus? Jesus tells us that it is the very same love that He has for us. We need to take time with this statement and to ponder it long. We also need to allow the message to touch our Hearts deeply. If we did, we would be different people. That same love of God would cause us to have great and deep love for others, and it would have an impact of change on our world. Jesus calls us friends because He has revealed everything that the Father has taught Him. Then Jesus continues with the statement:
“You did not choose Me but I chose you. I have appointed you to bear fruit.” Much of what we need to live life well is contained in this passage.
Take time to ponder God’s love for you. Consider what a privilege it is to be chosen by God. Spend time in quiet reflection on this passage. Allow yourself to be transformed.