After Judas’ betrayal and death, Peter leads the apostles in choosing a new member to restore the Twelve. Matthias is chosen, not by chance, but by God’s will. This passage reminds us that God’s plans are sovereign, and he calls us to fulfill a specific role within his Church. Matthias’s selection shows the importance of being a faithful witness to Christ. In the Gospel reading, Jesus speaks of the depth of his love for his disciples, commanding them to love one another as he has loved them. He no longer calls them servants, but friends, because he has shared with them everything he heard from the Father. Jesus also emphasizes that they did not choose him, but he chose them and appointed them to bear fruit that will last. This highlights the personal and intimate nature of Jesus’ relationship with his followers. As we honor St. Matthias, we are reminded of our call to love and serve in the way Christ has loved us, and to faithfully carry out the mission entrusted to us.

PRAYER: Abba Father, help me to love and serve, as you have called me. Amen.