Tuesday 14 May 2019
ST MATTHIAS.
Acts 1:15-17, 20-26. Psalm 112(113):1-8. John 15:9-17.
The Lord will give him a seat with the leaders of his people – Psalm 112(113):1-8.
‘I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.’
Democracy, discernment and decision. Today’s first reading gives us a ‘peephole’ look at the early church in action. Peter, as leader, invites the congregation to participate in choosing a replacement apostle from their ranks to fill the vacancy following the death of Judas. Through a democratic process, the eleven are to become twelve again as foretold in the Book of Psalms.
Peter lays down the criteria for the choice. This choice needs to have been a fellow pilgrim with Jesus and the with Twelve from the start to the finish of his ministry and a witness to his resurrection. Peter calls upon the Lord to share in the decision making – to help them discern their choice. The decision is reflected in the ballot result: it is Matthias.
Lord, we pray for the grace to always invite you into our decision making and not go it alone.
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