Reflection for TUESDAY, Feast of St. Andrew, Apostle.

By


Fr. Aloysius Santiago sdb
Rector and Parish Priest
Don Bosco Shrine
Lingarajapuram, Bangalore

Today's Word 

Matthew 4: 9  

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 

 

Today's Reflection 

We have heard of the term "sibling rivalry". 

It is not just a concept but a reality that can exist between siblings.

But on the other hand, there is also sibling unity, and it is heart-warming when siblings look out and care for one another.

According to Christian tradition, Andrew is the older brother of Peter.

But Peter is the more prominent sibling and also more vocal and impulsive.

Andrew may seem to the quieter one, and maybe more pensive and thoughtful.

And it was he who brought Peter to Jesus, and that was how Peter got his calling.

St. Andrew gave us an example of not just being a caring sibling and a thoughtful person.

He also gave us an example of being a missionary of Christ and bringing people to know Christ.

May we follow his example of being a caring brother or sister to others and to let them know who Jesus is by our actions.


 Saint of the day 

 St. Andrew, the Apostle 

“I command you for the last time….make your sacrifice to our gods” yelled Aegeas, the pagan judge.

“Certainly no!” was the reply back,

“I sacrifice daily to The Almighty God, the one and true God.

Not the flesh of oxen and the blood of goats do I offer, but the unspotted Lamb upon the altar.

All the faithful partake of His flesh, yet the Lamb remains unharmed and living!”

Exceedingly angered by that adamant refusal, the judge commanded the rebel to be thrown into prison.

The supporters of the rebel, who stood outside the judging quarters, raised an uproar to free him.

But the one who was punished, personally calmed the mob, and earnestly pleaded with them to desist, as he was hastening towards an ardently desired crown of martyrdom.

When he was led to the place of martyrdom, on beholding the cross from far, he cried out:

“O Good Cross, so long desired and now set up for my longing soul…

… I confidently, with rejoicing come to you!

Exultingly receive me, a disciple of Him who hung on you.”

Within a few moments, he was tied to the cross – an X-shaped Cross!

For two days, he hung there alive – unceasingly proclaiming the Teachings of Christ…until he passed on to Him, whose likeness in death, he so ardently desired!

This brave martyr of Christ was St Andrew, the Apostle of Jesus, whose feast we celebrate today.

GOD BLESS YOU 

Good morning. Have a nice safe day. 

HAPPY FEAST TO YOU