Today we celebrate the feast of a very well known brother and apostle - Andrew of Bethsaida - who was a brother of Simon and a disciple of John the Baptist who became a disciple of Jesus Christ. It was Andrew who brought his brother Simon (Peter) to Jesus. Andrew also, with Philip presented Gentiles to Jesus; and it was Andrew who pointed out to Jesus that there was a boy with some loaves and fishes when Jesus wanted to feed his hearers in the desert!
Andrew, like Peter, James and John were fishermen. They were quite settled in their careers. They knew where their bread and butter was coming from. But Jesus simply walked by and told them to drop everything and follow him! He told them to give up what they knew! Give up financial security! Give up family and friends who might want to dissuade them! And they did - immediately follow him! There was something irresistible about Jesus!
And Jesus sent them out on a new mission - giving them a new career! After having them witness the incomparable dramatic story of God’s rescuing fallen human nature by his own teaching and then death and resurrection - he made it very clear that this was the greatest news of all time - and that the message had to go forth! And as the Psalm says: How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news!
The good news has to be heard so that it can be responded to! Andrew, Peter, James, John and the rest of the twelve were eager - after the day of Pentecost- to go forth into all the world to proclaim that Jesus is Lord - and that baptism for the forgiveness of sins is now available for all!
After preaching the gospel in many lands Andrew was put to death by being crucified upside down (at his request - because he did not feel worthy to be crucified exactly the way Jesus was). It occured at at Achaia around the year 70.
Because of our baptism we are called to be prophetic people - to tell others about the Good News of Jesus - and the eternal life that hangs in the balance! May we, each in our duly appointed ways, do as much, this day! - and so give glory and praise to God!
No comments:
Post a Comment