A Prayer for the Feast of St. Matthias, the Apostle

February 24 / Matthew 11:15–20 / By Esaias Heidenreich

Lord Jesus, You rejoice in the Spirit over the welfare of Your Christian Church, and You heartily thank Your heavenly Father on our behalf, that, out of the inexpressible treasure of His wisdom, He has revealed His Word and grace to us, who are senseless, miserable, and unworthy. We ask that, in addition to this comforting thanksgiving, You would also be the faithful intercessor, caretaker, and guardian of us and of Your entire Christendom, so that we may be preserved against the devil, the world, and sin, for truly all things have been given over to You by Your Father, and through You alone do we come into the blessed and eternal knowledge of the heavenly Father. Amen.

Esaias Heidenreich, Betbüchlein (1572)

Lucas Cranach the Elder, Martyrdom of St. Matthias (c. 1512)