Short Homily for the Feast of Saint Matthias, Apostle
Readings: Acts 1:15–17, 20–26 | Psalm 113:1–2, 3–4, 5–6, 7–8 | John 15:9–17
Theme: “Chosen to Bear Fruit that Will Last”
😊 Many years ago, I told a seminarian during community washing-up duty: "You weren't chosen for your dishwashing skills, but now that you're here, wash with love!"
He replied: "Father, I was hoping God would call me to preach, not to polish spoons!"
That’s life in ministry — sometimes God chooses you for things you never saw coming!
Just like Saint Matthias — chosen after Jesus had ascended, not by CV or popularity, but by prayer and discernment. Sometimes, your greatest calling is not what you expected.
🔍 The Word of God
In Acts 1, the early Church needed to replace Judas. They didn’t host elections or consult social media. Instead, they prayed and trusted the Holy Spirit. Matthias is chosen — not because he was famous, but because he had been faithful.
He had walked the journey from the beginning. He had witnessed the Resurrection.
In John 15:9–17, Jesus says: “You did not choose me, but I chose you”. What a powerful reminder! We are not accidents in God’s plan. We are chosen — to bear fruit, to love, and to lay down our lives in service.
✝️ Eucharist Connection
At every Eucharist, we remember that we have been chosen — not just to receive Christ but to become His Body in the world. Like Matthias, we are called into communion, chosen to carry hope where there is despair, and light where there is darkness.
❓ Question for Reflection
Have you recognised the ways in which God has chosen you — in your family, your parish, your community — to be His instrument of love and witness?
💡 Daily Practical Application
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Listen for the Call – like Matthias, stay close to the Church and keep your heart ready.
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Respond with Faith – don’t wait to feel “qualified”; God equips the called.
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Bear Fruit – show love where it’s needed most: in your taxi queue, at work, at home.
🌄 For Those Who Encounter Difficulties
You may feel overlooked, like a second choice. But remember: God sees your heart. Your time will come. Like Matthias, your quiet faithfulness prepares you for a purpose no one else can fulfil. Even in struggle, God is shaping your mission.
✨ Jubilee Year Action: What Can I Do?
As a Pilgrim of Hope, commit to:
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Serving faithfully in one parish ministry.
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Praying for vocations and supporting those discerning.
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Encouraging others who feel forgotten — remind them: “You are chosen too.”
🇿🇦 South African Touch
South Africans know the pain of being “left out” — by history, inequality, or system failure. But in God’s Church, no one is excluded. The Spirit sees beyond your background. Whether from the township, the city, or the rural village — you are chosen.
💬 Inspiration Quote
“God doesn’t call the qualified — He qualifies the called.”
– Archbishop Desmond Tutu once reminded us: “My humanity is bound up in yours.” That’s the Gospel — chosen together, to build a future filled with faith.
🙏 Conclusion & Short Prayer
You may not wear a collar like Matthias or stand at a pulpit, but in your home, your taxi rank, your school, and WhatsApp groups — you’re chosen to bear fruit.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for choosing me.
Even when I feel unworthy, remind me that I am Yours.
Help me to bear fruit that brings joy, justice, and love.
May I walk today as a Pilgrim of Hope — empowered, not by status,
but by the Spirit that never gives up on me.
Amen.
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