Throughout the Easter Season, the daily devotions have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church. Today’s writer is Tessa Holmes.
So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection. 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 1:21-26
This passage of scripture picks up after Judas is no longer an apostle, so there is a spot open that needs to be filled. In the grand scheme of the Bible 11 is not a holy number, and the disciples must strive to remain 12 in number so that they can be a whole number. Therefore, Peter establishes the essential criteria for the person who will replace Judas as an apostle.
The criteria was he must have been an active disciple from the beginning of Jesus’ ministry (his baptism) to the end (his ascension). There were two options to pick from so the disciples decided to cast lots.
Casting lots was a process of divination by which participants sought God’s guidance with regard to important decisions or problems.
The overall message of this scripture is that they prayed to the Lord for guidance when they were unsure what they should do. When the disciples had questions and doubts on their next course of action, they did the one thing they knew is possible at all times of the day – pray.
Prayer is something you can do no matter what is happening or where you are. The disciples prayed to the Lord when they were incomplete and as a result he helped the disciples through their problem. I think this can be applied to all of our lives. When we feel incomplete in any facet all we need to do is pray, and the Lord can help us through that problem.
Let us pray: Dear Lord, You, who know the hearts of all men, can help us all to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas fell away. Please be with us as we continue our journey through your love. Amen.
Daily Devotions 
April 7, 2018 at 9:15 pm |
Well written, inspirational devotion. One flaw, however. Judas I. was never an Apostle. He was a disciple. Apostles are those sent out.