Daily Reflections ...

In today’s scripture we read of the first four disciples being called by Jesus. St Andrew, whose feast we celebrate today, being one of them. The setting is very domestic and rural: fishermen plying their trade on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. All four men’s responses are the same: “at once” and “immediately” they left their boats and nets behind. Maybe, this is due to Jesus’ call involving a look from him that penetrated their hearts.

For these fishermen, their response would involve leaving behind their livelihood, security and families for a radical life following Jesus as his disciples. For St Andrew, this would be a lifelong commitment until his martyrdom in approximately 60 CE.

How can this scripture speak to us today in 2023? How can we be disciples in this modern age? We are all called to be Jesus’ disciples through our baptism. And like the fisher disciples, we are asked to surrender everything in pursuit of this radical call. Perhaps we might ask ourselves what are the “nets” in our lives that stop us from responding wholeheartedly and consistently to the call of Jesus?

Jesus, may I respond even more deeply, radically and intimately to your penetrating call on my life each day. Amen

by Michael Bruynesteyn