The Lord will give him a seat with the leaders of his people. — Psalm 113:8

Mass readings: Acts 1:15-17,20-26 / John 15:9-17 

One Who Remained 

Today we celebrate the feast of St. Matthias, the apostle chosen after Christ’s ascension but before Pentecost. He is mentioned only once in Scripture. Today’s reading from Acts describes his selection. Traditions hint at his life of prayer, mortification, and possible martyrdom in Ethiopia. Otherwise, we seem to hear of him no more. 

Glimpses into today’s reading from Acts and today’s Gospel reveal the character of Matthias as one who “remained.” Matthias followed Jesus from His baptism through His Ascension. Matthias remained a faithful follower who didn’t cut and run when the going got tough! Jesus said, “Remain in my love” and Matthias apparently did. Many of us will have little written about us. However, perhaps the most important legacy is to be called, like Matthias, one who remained. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to remain faithful to You always and value faithfulness above fame.