Acts 1:15-26 NIV
[15] In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) [16] and said, “Brothers and sisters, the Scripture had to be fulfilled in which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus. [17] He was one of our number and shared in our ministry.” [18] (With the payment he received for his wickedness, Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong, his body burst open and all his intestines spilled out. [19] Everyone in Jerusalem heard about this, so they called that field in their language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) [20] “For,” said Peter, “it is written in the Book of Psalms: “ ‘May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,’ and, “ ‘May another take his place of leadership.’ [21] Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us, [22] beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.” [23] So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. [24] Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen [25] to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” [26] Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

Dear God, though it’s never mentioned, I think Peter and the apostles make a mistake here. I think they were trying too hard. I’ve mentioned this in reference to this passage before. It’s interesting to note that Matthias is never mentioned again the the Bible outside of these verses.

I think that Peter was trying too hard and trying to take upon himself the responsibility of fulfilling prophecy. Better said, he was looking to prophecy as his guide. And in the case of David’s 109th Psalm, I question how much of that was prophecy anyway. And it’s important to note that no one is recorded as disagreeing with him. John and everyone else followed his lead.

Peter did a lot of things right, but he did them when he wasn’t really trying. He healed people. He broke the ground on eating unclean food. But in the confusion of this time—in the fog of war—he tried to rush your timing. There is no way he could have foreseen what would end up happening with Paul’s conversion and subsequent apostleship. But I think this is a lesson for all of us that if we are faithful about your work then you will bring us what and who we need.

Father, I am in the midst of the time of year when we need donations at our clinic. It’s fundraising season. And I confess to you that I get fearful and my temptation is to try to force things. Help me to have the faith I need to watch your plan unfold over time. Help me to live not in denial, but in your peace. And work through me so that others might see you in everything I do and be drawn to you.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen