Chosen to Bear Fruit: Feast of Saint Matthias, Apostle
On May 14, the Church celebrates the Feast of Saint Matthias, the Apostle chosen to take the place of Judas Iscariot. While Matthias is one of the lesser-known Apostles, his story offers profound insight into vocation, humility, and divine election.
A Quiet Witness Called to Greatness
In the first reading (Acts 1:15–26), Peter addresses a group of believers and explains the need to replace Judas, who had abandoned his apostolic ministry. The qualification for Judas’s successor? Someone who had been with Jesus from the baptism of John until His Ascension—someone who had quietly followed, learned, and witnessed everything, even if not named among the Twelve.
Two men were proposed: Joseph called Barsabbas (Justus) and Matthias. After prayer, the community cast lots, and the lot fell on Matthias. This wasn’t chance—it was a discernment wrapped in prayer and trust in God’s providence. Matthias didn’t campaign, push, or posture. He was simply present, faithful, and ready.
Chosen to Bear Fruit
The Gospel reading from John (15:9–17) offers the perfect complement. Jesus tells His disciples:
“It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain.”
This line captures the essence of Matthias’s call. Though he wasn’t part of the original Twelve, he was still chosen—not by human appointment, but by divine design. The fruit of his life wasn’t measured by fame, but by fidelity to Christ’s mission. Matthias reminds us that discipleship is not about prominence, but perseverance.
A Lesson in Love and Friendship
Jesus also tells His disciples, “I no longer call you slaves…I have called you friends.” Saint Matthias stepped into his new role not merely as a functionary, but as a friend of Christ—chosen to continue His mission of love, unity, and truth.
This Feast day is a call for all of us to examine how we remain in Christ’s love and how we respond to His call to bear fruit. Like Matthias, we may feel unnoticed or on the margins, but the Lord sees, knows, and calls us in His perfect time.
Prayer for Today
Lord Jesus, You chose Saint Matthias to take the place of Judas and bear lasting fruit as Your Apostle. Help me to be faithful in the hidden places of life, trusting that You see me, love me, and have a purpose for me. Let my life be rooted in Your love and fruitful for Your Kingdom. Amen.
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.