Readings: Romans 10:9-18, Ps. 19:2-5, Matthew 4:18-22
“As Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, his brother, casting a net into the sea… Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.’ Immediately, they left their nets and followed him.” (Matthew 4:18-20)
In today’s Gospel passage, we witness the call of Simon and his brother Andrew, whose feast we celebrate today. Simon, also known as Peter, enjoyed prominence among the Apostles, but Andrew was never in the limelight. Not much was heard or written about him. Today, as we draw our attention to this great apostle, we shall reflect on some qualities we can benefit from him.
- According to John’s Gospel, Andrew was the first person to be called by Jesus as his disciple. When Andrew met Jesus, he quickly ran to bring Simon to Jesus. “One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his brother Simon and told him we had found the Messiah (Christ). He brought him to Jesus.” (John 1:40-42).
- Andrew had a special talent for bringing people to Jesus. He was not selfish with the truth. Let us examine our conscience: Since I became a Christian, how many people have I brought to Jesus? Charity begins at home; how many of my family members have become better Christians because of my shining example and conviction? As St. Paul teaches in today’s first reading, preaching (bringing people to Christ) is beautiful. “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach good news!” (Romans 10:15)
- When Andrew introduced his brother Peter to Jesus, not much was heard about him again. Andrew believed and practised the principle that: “Actions speak louder than words.” Learn to speak less and do more. In John 6, when Jesus asked his disciples to provide food for the crowd, they all complained about how to get food, but Andrew quickly looked around and found a boy with five loaves and two fish. Jesus said: “Bring them.”
- Peter had the habit of talking even when he wasn’t asked to say anything (for instance, at the Transfiguration) or without weighing his words (for instance, when he asked to join Jesus to talk on water). Being talkative will make you noticed by others. However, be careful. Speak not because you have to say something but because you have something to say.
- Andrew’s life teaches us that God needs people. Yes, God is ever in need of willing instruments. God wants to save us but will not do it in a vacuum. In today’s first reading, St. Paul says, “Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved. But how are men to call upon him whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him, whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without a preacher? (Romans 10:13-14). God needs you. Let your light shine; many people are reading the Bible that you communicate daily with your life.
- Andrew (like Simon, his brother) did not resist the call. Matthew tells us that Jesus called them: “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Without understanding the full implication of Jesus’ request, they left their nets and followed Jesus. This is a practical demonstration of trust. Follow Jesus wholeheartedly by putting Him first in everything you do. Trust that you will never get lost if you follow Jesus.
- Andrew courageously accepted martyrdom for the Gospel. St. James teaches: “Count it all joy, my brethren when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4). Consider it a privilege to suffer for the sake of righteousness and truth.
- Andrew is often depicted in iconography with the “X” shaped Cross, a symbol now known as St. Andrew’s Cross. When Andrew faced crucifixion, he requested that he was unworthy to die on the same shape of a cross that Jesus died. This teaches us humility even in the face of death.
In conclusion, Andrew died many years ago but continues to live in our hearts today (thousands of years later). The only way to cheat death is to live a good life. Evil people live once and die forever, but good people live forever. May St. Andrew intercede for us. Amen
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, grant us a share in St. Andrew’s Apostolic zeal and that our feet would announce Good News. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Andrew, Apostle - Feast Liturgical Colour: Red. Bible Study: Romans 10:9-18, Ps. 19:2-5, Matthew 4:18-22).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu