Why twelve apostles? Jesus chose twelve as the foundation of the new community which came to be known initially as “the Way”. The model for Jesus was the twelve tribes of Israel. “The Way” was the new Israel. But once the foundation had been laid then the structures of leadership became somewhat fluid during the years of the early church. So there was no need to maintain a structure based on the twelve apostles. Besides, for some time, the early disciples expected that the end of the world was near and so they did not see the need to worry about leadership structures. Still, as we read in the first reading for today which is the feast St Matthias, the reading from Acts 1:15-26, Peter declared to the community that someone had to take Judas Iscariot’s place, so as to ensure the foundation was complete or restored to the full 12. There was one requirement. The person to be chosen had to have been with Jesus throughout his ministry right up until his death and resurrection. In ths way he could be a true witness. So two candidates were named – Joseph known as Barsabbas and Matthias. Then they drew lots and the lot fell on Matthias. And that’s all we know about Matthias, the apostle. He reminds me of our book of Columban anniversaries – “Those who journeyed with us”. The notice for many Columbans can be quite detailed. But for some it can be quite brief, like saying, “altogether he worked for 40 years in Korea”! We are left to wonder but with the confidence that much happened in those 40 years. Likewise, for Matthias, I am sure he was an outstanding witness to Jesus Christ. The focus is more on his Lord and Master rather than the humble apostle who was chosen by divine lot. Let us pray to Matthias, asking for that sense of humility whereby we give our lives in selfless service of Christ, our Lord and Saviour.
Tom Rouse
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