St. Matthias

So they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed and said, ‘Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place* in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.’ And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles. Acts 1. 15 - 26

...and that is about all we know of Matthias who was chosen as a replacement for Judas the Betrayer. Today is his feast day, and so I did a little google research about him. Justus who was also in the running completely disappears after he is mentioned in this passage. Who were these two men? We know according to the previous verses that they had been with Jesus since the beginning of his public ministry and witnessed his Resurrection and Ascension.They were part of a large crowd of followers, and they were nominated by that crowd, then lots were cast and Matthias was chosen.

Matthias in Hebrew means gift of Yahweh and different sources tell different stories about what happened to him. Some say he died of old age and others say he was stoned to death and beheaded. Saint Matthias is the patron saint of carpenters, tailors, those with smallpox, and in prayers for perseverence and for hope - and also alcoholics.

This week as we prepare for the end of the Epiphany season and the Transfiguration, I wonder how Matthias shone with the Light of Christ which led him to be chosen for this important role. What did God know about his heart? There must have been something in his demeanor, in his eyes and in his heart that alerted God to his possibilities. We dazzle with light when we are filled with the Holy Spirit, in fact I read recently that some say they need sunglasses the dazzle is so great. Creation dazzles with the Light of the Creator at times; our neighbors dazzle with it too!

Who do you know that shines with the Light of Christ? Thank them for being a beacon in the world and tell them you need sunglasses they shine so brightly!