Everyone in the community gathered around Peter.  Rising, he said, “My brothers and sisters, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand (Acts 1:16).”  Peter explained a new apostle must take the place of Judas and that Justus and Matthias had been chosen by the eleven.  Peter asked the community to pray over the two men, asking God to choose the twelfth apostle. 

With Justus and Matthias surrounded by the community, Peter began the pray, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen (Acts 1:24).”  Matthias, his eyes closed and head bowed, whispered, “Lord, I do not know how to be an apostle.  I ran away when the Romans came for you.  I was not brave enough to follow you to the high priest, like Peter, and I have no worldly goods, like Matthew, to contribute to the community. So how can I possibly serve you?”

Matthias’ prayer was interrupted by the memories of Jesus telling those gathered in the upper room, “You are my friends, it was not you who chose me, but I who chose you, go and bear fruit that will remain (John 15:15-16).”  Matthias heard the voice of the Lord speaking to him.  “Matthias, I choose you to be my apostle, share my message and my commandments with everyone.  Tell them to love one another.”  Reaching into the small bag offered by Peter, Matthias inhaled deeply and whispered, “Lord, I love you.  According to your will, not mine.”  Opening his hand, he saw the white lot that indicated God had chosen him. 

Even if we are not sure we have what it takes to respond to God’s call, we are all chosen.  Remembering this can be especially challenging if we perceive that God is inviting us to a new path that seems filled with unknowns.  We might forget that our journey forward always takes place on an uncharted and unseen path in those moments.  But, like Matthias, or any follower of Christ, we only need to keep his commandments to remain in his love (John 15:10).  He laid down his life for us, his friends, and will never abandon us. 

“It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so  that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you.  This I command you: love one another (John 15:16-17).”