“Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us,22 beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.” 23 So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” 26 Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.” Acts 1.21-25
Matthias. We don’t know much about this man. We know he had been with the disciples the ”whole time the Lord Jesus was living among” them. We know that Matthias had “history” with the group. Peter takes us all the way back, over three years ago when John baptized Jesus in the Jordan River until his ascension. Matthias was with the followers of Jesus. He was also a witness of the resurrection. He walked with Jesus, knew Jesus, loved Jesus, followed Jesus. He was not an official Disciple but he was follower.
Since Judas betrayed the Lord and hung himself, they needed to complete the number twelve the Lord had established and they wanted someone who was one of them. They cast lots between two men, Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Before they chose they prayed this prayer — “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” The prayer was simple, straightforward and to the point. And the lots fell to Matthias.
What does it mean to be chosen? To be set a part, ordained, called, selected? I remember neighborhood baseball or football games when kids stood in a bunch and two ”captains” selected who they wanted first. There was no praying! Just choosing the best talent! I was not always chosen last!
Matthias was chosen by the disciples but they implored the Lord. They, by faith asked God to tell them who he wanted as the twelfth discipled. It was either him or Justus. Matthias won out. I’m guessing not because he was more popular but more faithful. The way the Lord chooses is way different than the way the world does (just look at David who was selected and anointed as the future king even those he was the last of eight brothers.)
The good news for us is that God has chosen all of us in one way or another. Each of us who say “yes” to him will be put to work in the service of the King Jesus. Some of us will have seemingly smaller tasks while others (Billy Graham for example) will have a global impact. God chooses to use each of us in a meaningful and significant way.
Yet in order to be used by God we must first say ”yes” to God. We must confess our sins, commit our hearts to him, and follow him by faith. We must trust and obey as the old hymn says.
Have you said “yes” to the Lord? Have you welcomed him into your home, humbled yourself before his care, and committed your ways to him? Why not do so right now. Allow Christ to rule in your heart and accept your role as a chosen daughter or son of the King.
“O Lord God, thank you for choosing us. Thank you for loving us even when we feel unlovable. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill us with your power and might. Help us to find significance in you above all other things. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen