today's other readings are Psalm 113 and John 15: 9-17
I don't remember how old I was, but I remember the very first time I read today's 1st reading, which outlines the story of the selection of Judas' successor as an Apostle.
When I got to the point that St. Luke shares the 2 candidates, my mind was drawn to the names: Joseph, called Barsabbas, also known as Justus; and Matthias. With St. Luke's detailing of the 3 names of the 1st candidate; I thought for sure he would be the one. But of course, I was wrong. By choosing lots, Matthias became the new apostle, and today we celebrate his feast day, and whose image is portrayed in the icon above.
The other candidate went back to obscurity, both in the Scriptures, and for that matter, history. According to legend, he went on to become a bishop of the church, but we have little proof of that.
Me being me, I have always wondered what happened to Joseph/Barsabbas/Justus. I wonder how he reacted when the lot did not fall his way? Bitterly disappointed, considering he had a 50/50 chance? Maybe he felt some consolation in knowing that he was chosen as a candidate in the first place. But happened later? Did he stay and support the work of the apostles? Or did he disappear?
His story in many ways is the story of so many people - considered candidates for an important position, but not getting it. For each one of them, the question remains - so what do I do now? The same as before, or is this a sign to move on to something else? Obviously this is a very important and personal question. What to do then? Pray to the Holy Spirit, dear readers, pray to the Spirit. Pray for the wisdom and openness to be able to discern what the next steps should be. For God is with you. And God needs you. And God has a plan for you.