Readings:
Romans 10: 9-18.
Matthew 4: 18-22
Reflection
Most scholars agree that Andrew was Peter’s older brother, and until he met Jesus, he had been a disciple of John the Baptist.
Despite his role in introducing Peter to Jesus, according to John’s gospel, Andrew played a largely hidden part compared with his brother. Maybe Andrew took to heart one of John the Baptist’s lessons, “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 1:40)
Andrew and Peter were obviously close and extremely devoted to their faith, because when Andrew became convinced that he had met the Messiah, the first person he wanted to tell, was Peter.
Andrew, Peter, and Philip came from the same town in Galilee, Bethsaida and they are connected a number of times in John’s gospel. Throughout John’s gospel, a role that Andrew played could be a particular inspiration for each of us. Andrew brought people to Jesus!
As mentioned already, Andrew brought Peter to Jesus (John 1:41)
Andrew was the one who told Jesus about the boy with the loaves and fish (John (6:8,9).
When some Greek believers wanted to speak to Jesus, they approached Philip and then spoke to Andrew (John 12:22) and they both then went to speak with Jesus.
Although Andrew is not normally present with Peter, James, and John, he is present when these four speak with Jesus on the Mouth of Olives about ‘the end times’ (Mark 13:3)
Andrew brought people to Jesus. May that be what we too seek to do.
Brian Traynor CP has been involved in faith formation for many years especially in the form of parish missions and through the Passionist Family Group Movement. Brian is a member of the Passionist community at Holy Cross, Templestowe.