Feast of Saint Matthias, Apostle – Acts 1:15-17,20-26; John 15:9-17

“They prayed: Lord, you can read everyone’s heart; show us therefore which of these two you have chosen.”

For the second time this week we hear the same passage from the Acts of the Apostles. The Apostles behave as their Master Jesus – they pray and collectively discern who to include in their group in the place of Judas. And in precisely such a way the Church develops, in the midst of a world full of contradictions and adversities. In what way does it develop? She prays for vocations, discerns their truth and sends new workers for the harvest, so as to sow the word of life.

Jesus invites us into friendship with Him – this is a condition of being a witness to the Gospel. Because you can’t proclaim what you don’t know, nor talk about someone who remains distant, beyond reach. This is why it is important to connect with the word of God every day, which directs the path of life and works, inviting us to faithfully follow Jesus. This is not just for those called to priestly service, but for all the baptised. And then we will be able to discover His presence within us and in the world in which we live.

Lord Jesus, thank You that You have chosen me as Your friend, apostle and witness. You desire that I follow You in love, that I give my heart in love, serving my brothers and sisters. On my own I am very weak, so strengthen me in the power of the Holy Spirit.