Naming a Disciple to Replace Judas

Text: Acts 1: 15-26

Reflection and Question: Out of all His followers, Jesus chose twelve to be His disciples, a number resonant with the twelve tribes of Israel. When Judas betrayed Jesus and died, the company of believers needed to replace him from those who had been with Jesus from the beginning at His baptism. There was no vote. In accord with ancient custom, the chance in drawing lots was the expression of God’s choice: Matthias. He is not mentioned anywhere else in Scripture. How does God’s choice become clear to you?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, help us understand that there is no “chance” in this world. There are infinite ways in which You move among us to do Your Will. Work within and through us, we pray, giving us Grace to be partners in Your Work. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).