Monday 14th May, 2012
St Matthias. Acts 1:15-17, 20-26. The Lord will give him a seat with the leaders of his people—Ps 112(113):1-8. John 15:9‑17.

  
Meditation: mp3 | podcast
Readings: Text | mp3 | podcast

Democracy, discernment and decision.

Today’s first reading gives us a ‘peephole’ look at the early church in action. Peter, as leader, invites the congregation to participate in choosing a replacement apostle from their ranks to fill the vacancy following the death of Judas. Through a democratic process, the eleven are to become twelve again as foretold in the Book of Psalms.

Peter lays down the criteria for the choice. This choice needs to have been a fellow pilgrim with Jesus and the with Twelve from the start to the finish of his ministry and a witness to his resurrection. Peter calls upon the Lord to share in the decision making—to help them discern their choice. The decision is reflected in the ballot result: it is Matthias.

Lord, we pray for the grace to always invite you into our decision making and not go it alone.