The disciples wanted to fill the position left vacant by Judas. They cast lots - just as the soldiers had cast lots for Jesus' cloak - to choose between Barsabbas and Matthias. Both had been with Jesus and the disciples for quite a while, so they were familiar with the mission and vision of Jesus. For the early Apostles' community, it was important for a person to be committed to the mission and vision before being chosen to lead a group. In the end, it was Matthias who was chosen to be one of the twelve.

Jesus was speaking to the disciples of the love that is between the Father and Himself. He explained that He had the same love for the disciples and that if they kept His commandment to love one another as He loved them, they would be called the friends of Jesus. Jesus had shared with them all that He had learned from the Father; therefore, the disciples were friends, rather than servants.

When we experience the love of Jesus, we also are enabled to love one another. We need to abide in God's love as Jesus did. Jesus is the model for us to follow. We too can be friends of Jesus. This friendship is authentically seen in laying down one's life for others, a sacrifice which Christ Jesus Himself had fulfilled.