Emma White

Turn to God for faithful discernment.

I have been a part of St. Albans for two amazing years now. I currently serve as a student intern with our Campus Ministry team as well as the liaison for Campus Ministry on the Advisory Committee. 

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." Acts 1:15-26

Click here to read the appointed scripture for the Feast of St. Matthias

Devotional

In Acts 1:15-26, In a search to replace Judas as an apostle, they prayed “Lord you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen…”.  In such a difficult time of betrayal and hardship, they turned to God in faithful discernment.

I have thought long and hard over this piece of Scripture, asking “How can I relate to this? I’ve never chosen a twelfth apostle.”. Truthfully, I had to research to get a better idea. Googling aside, It only hit me last night, in a student vestry meeting. A guest speaker came in. He said, “We do not give something up to be boastful, but to make more space for God in our lives”. Suddenly it hit me what this scripture was saying. When times are tough, I should turn to Him. I must make space for the Lord because He will guide me if I do so. He will show me the way, for he knows my heart. In this scripture they still prayed to him, even though he was not in the flesh. That is faith. They turned to God in a time of confusion and need.

To me this scripture spoke clearly.  During this season it is especially important to turn to God, make space for prayerful discernment, and listen to him when he calls us, because He knows our hearts.