Scripture Nugget 11.9.2016

“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 Barabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Mathias. 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

What the heck happened to Mathias? We don’t hear about him in any scriptures after his selection to serve. He apparently met the criteria in verses 21-22, “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.” He was prayerfully selected to serve and yet we hear nothing of him in the future ministry of the Church. Now it could be that he was one who went to the ends of the earth to serve; so I’m not judging Mathias based on what might have been. But he was selected to replace Judas, one of the original twelve Disciples, who for the most part stayed local in Jerusalem early on and only later went out temporarily as they were sent. What happened to Mathias? Did he quit coming and participating? Did anyone reach out to him? I think this struck me, having just completed preparations for Charge Conference and setting the leadership for 2017. Several months ago, I asked the congregation to pray about where God was leading them to serve and asked the Nominations Committee to pray that God reveal to us those who should be asked/selected to serve. It always interests me why some respond positively to the request to serve but then rarely show up for meetings much less get involved and help. We also had to conduct an audit of the membership role. What has happened to those listed as members but we haven’t seen for months or even years? Like Mathias we should ask where are they? We should reach out and not let them continue to wander alone. Who do I/you need to call, to visit, to check-up on?