The 13th Disciple

"So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles." Acts 1:24-26

This week I was reading the first chapter in Acts and stumbled on a section that we don't think about that often. At the end of the first chapter of Acts there is the story of calling of the 13th disciple, Matthias.

There is a lot made in the Gospels about the ministry of Jesus and his 12 disciples. The gospels contain accounts of the selection of the 12, and their role in Jesus' life and ministry. That includes Judas, who betrayed Jesus and later hung himself in shame and guilt.

Then Jesus comes back, visits people, offers a final commission, and ascends to Heaven. The disciples who are left are charged with starting the church. Most of the rest of the New Testament is accounts from Peter and John, as well as the missionary work done by the Apostle Paul. But tucked between the story of Jesus' ascension and the starting of the "Acts 2" church is a little section about choosing Judas' replacement.

That honor fell to Matthias. He doesn't get much publicity in the Scriptures. In fact, that section above is it. And there's not a lot written or said about Matthias. He was cannonized as a saint in the Catholic Church, and St. Matthias day is said to be lucky, but no one can even be sure how his life ended. Some say he fell prey to a city of cannibals. Others that he was stoned to death and beheaded. And then others say he died of old age. It seems that tales of Matthias are like cable news broadcasts, you can pick the version of facts that is most comforting to you.

But there is something fascinating about his story. It reminds me of a player who's been on the periphery of a famous team for a long time. Then the team finally wins the title, the Hall of Fame coach retires, and then he gets brought onto the team. You're excited to finally be on the team, but what a time to get called up.

Matthias, as it notes, was around the ministry from the beginning. He was a witness to it all. Then, after Jesus death, resurrection, and ascension, he finally got called up. He got a couple sentences and later became a Saint. Children don't memorize his name as one of the disciples. He's not in any of the cool stories. He just quietly was part of the movement, and when called upon he stepped up and got in the game.

I guess I sort of identified with that in my own life. With Highlands Church, I was on the periphery from the beginning. I watched it grow and helped where I could. Then, one day, there was an opening on the team and they asked me to join the game. I said yes, and I've never regretted it. I worked mostly behind the scenes, and I loved every minute of it.

If we're paying attention, God gives us all a chance to get in the game in some way. It could be a job with a church, a volunteer opportunity, or a chance to go serve Him on the mission field. We all spend a lot of time like Matthias, on the periphery, watching the action. But the question is, when God calls you into the game, will you answer the call.

Matthias did, and he didn't look back. Hopefully when the call comes, you'll be able to say the same.