St. Andrew, Introducing People to Jesus Christ

 Reflection on the Readings and the Feast of Saint Andrew, November 30th, 2020

Texts: Rom. 10:9-18; Ps. 2-5; Matt. 4:18-22

Andrew was a native of Bethsaida and his name, Andrew, means "manly" or "courageous". What distinguished him from other apostles was that he was found of bringing people to Christ. In the words of Thomas Pazhayampallil: "Andrew's vocation must have been to introduce people to Christ" (Words of Eternal Life). He introduced Peter to Christ; he introduced the boy with five barley loaves and two fish to Jesus; and also together with Philip, he introduced the Greeks to Jesus (cf. Jn 1:41-42; 6:8-9; 12:20-22). As we celebrate his feast today we are called to introduce people to Jesus Christ. John Chrysostom says, "Andrew's words are those of one waiting for the Messiah to come from heaven, full of joy that he has come, and hurrying to tell the great news to the others. This action of sharing his spiritual gains with others was born of brotherly love, family ties, and genuine affection" (the feast office of the reading).

Today's first reading shows us the importance of the special vocation St. Andrew embraced among the apostles. St. Paul, in the first reading, says, "For 'every one who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.' But how are men to call upon him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him they have never heard? And how are they to hear without a preacher?" These words of St. Paul show us how St. Andrew participated in the works of salvation; by introducing people to Jesus he led them to faith and salvation. St. Paul reminds us that it was a vocation when he says, "And how can men preach unless they are sent? St. Andrew had the vocation of bringing good news to people.

The gospel reading speaks of what it costed St. Andrew to follow Jesus: he left profession and Relations to follow Jesus. To follow Jesus, there are certain things one must live behind: our old self, life of sins and passions.

May God grant us the grace to always lead people to him and to forsake whatever is not worthy of his name. Amen.

Rev. Fr. Andrew Olowomuke