Saturday of Lent 1 — St. Matthias, Apostle

And they put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also called Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show 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 numbered with the eleven apostles. — Acts 1:23–26

“God’s name is kept holy when the Word of God is taught in its truth and purity, and we, as the children of God, also lead holy lives according to it.” Therefore, to pray, “Hallowed be Thy name,” is to pray that God would continue to send ministers to preach Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

Thanks be to God! He has heard and answered that prayer. He continues to raise up faithful men to preach His Word in its truth and purity. This we remember today as we remember and give thanks to God for Matthias, the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. By His grace alone God provided another to take the Office and preach the Gospel. He continues to do so to this very day by His grace as well. Though pastors may take calls, retire, or die, God raises up new pastors to take their place in the ministry. For by the Word of God that they preach His name is kept holy among us also. Our sins are forgiven, our faith is strengthened, and we are moved to live new and holy lives according to it.

Therefore, we pray on this St. Matthias’s Day, and every day, “Hallowed be Thy name.” And whenever we may attend the Divine Service and hear His called and ordained minister proclaim the forgiveness won by Jesus Christ for us, God is answering that prayer. May God preserve to us His true and pure Word, and may we, by the power of the Holy Spirit, also lead holy lives according to it.

Help us to hear Your Word in faith and live holy lives of love as You command, dear Father in heaven! Amen.