Feast of St. Andrew, Apostle

Today's Mass Readings

This is the feast of St. Andrew, brother of Simon Peter, the first two apostles called by Jesus. Today’s gospel from Matthew 4:18-22 recalls that event: “Jesus…saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him.” Perhaps the most important phrase of that story is “At once.” Those two little words speak volumes. Jesus was not looking for an answer of “maybe, I’ll think about it” or “I’ll get back with you in a couple of weeks.” Jesus’ call “Come after me” demanded a prompt response. They abandoned their fishing job immediately and followed Jesus. They simply trusted in Jesus because, as Andrew told his brother Simon “We have found the Messiah!” (Jn 1:41). Discipleship is a total commitment, a complete investment of one’s life in following Jesus. Andrew did not know the cost of that response at the time. According to tradition, Andrew went to the area of modern Greece and Turkey to preach the gospel of Christ and was crucified there in a way similar to his Master on an X-shaped cross. Peter faced crucifixion in Rome.

Later in the gospel Jesus expanded his invitation to include us as well: “If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Lk 9:23). He later told this parable which captures the full meaning of discipleship: “The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he found a pearl of great value, he went out and sold everything he had and bought it” (Mt 13:45). Andrew and Peter found that Pearl of Great Price in the person of Jesus. Can we invest ourselves completely in Him, even if it means giving up everything?

Thought for today: Jesus said “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Mt 6:21). In what or in whom have you invested your life?

Reflection by Br. Michael Marcotte, OSB