Romans 10:9-18; Psalm 19; Matthew 4:18-22
Jesus says to Peter and Andrew “follow me” the same way he said to the Levi “follow me” to John and James “Follow me”. To follow him is a call to discipleship. Who is a disciple? The “New Ratio Fundamentalis” no. 61 says; “a disciple is one whom the Lord has called to stay with him, to follow him, and to become a missionary of the Gospel”. As disciples, let us stay with him, follow him and be his witnesses. We need to be good followers to become good leaders. If we follow then we shall not wallow.
Andrew whose feast we celebrate today followed Jesus and became a fisher of men. If we follow Jesus we shall become fishers of men. The first reading today speaks about this missionary agenda; there must be a preacher in order for there to be hearers and believers. Where are the missionaries of today? What extent can we go for Christ? Do we understand martyrdom? Andrew was martyred on an X-shaped cross for what he believed. His faith was not in vain. Hence, he is celebrated today.
Lastly, Andrew was the one who introduced his brother Peter to Jesus, saying; “We have found the Messiah.” Who have you introduced to Jesus?
LET US PRAY We humbly implore your majesty, O Lord, that, just as the blessed Apostle Andrew was for your Church a preacher and pastor, so he may be for us a constant intercessor before you. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen!
