Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle
In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus saw Simon and Andrew and called them. At once they left their nets. It is interesting to note in the gospel of John, it is Andrew that first meets Jesus. Andrew was a disciple of John the Baptist. We know John and Jesus to be cousins. Perhaps it is through John that Andrew is first introduced to Jesus. Then we recall that Andrew went to Simon and made the proclamation that they had found the Messiah. A very bold proclamation. Simon and Andrew may have listened to Jesus several times. Now, today, Jesus calls them to be fishers of men. One can only imagine how their lives were turned upside down. From fishermen to fishers of men. Amazing.
It is thought that Andrew was a missionary to Asia Minor and Greece and may have gone as far as Poland and Russia. He was martyred on an “X” shaped cross, not desiring to die in the same manner as his Lord. There are many interesting traditions and stories associated with St Andrew. Take some time to look some of these up. They have a lot to do with marriage.
For those who desire a spiritual challenge at this time of year there is a St Andrew novena. Challenging because it starts today, November 30th and ends December 24th. The prayers are to be said fifteen times each day. Give it a try, just for the experience, even if you only make it a few days.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen