Happy St. Andrew’s Day! Yes, it’s Saturday 30th November 2024, and across Scotland (and beyond), people are celebrating their patron saint—the humble fisherman turned bold disciple of Jesus. St. Andrew may not have written a Gospel or been front-and-centre like Peter, but his willingness to follow Jesus, point others to Him, and quietly serve speaks volumes for us today.
St. Andrew is often remembered for one pivotal moment in John 1:40-42, where we read that it was Andrew who brought his brother, Simon Peter, to Jesus. Let’s pause. I mean, Peter—the rock of the early Church—only met Jesus because of Andrew’s introduction. Can you imagine what might have been missed if Andrew hadn’t spoken up? Yet, Andrew’s ministry wasn’t about basking in the spotlight. He was the connector, the faithful friend who led others to Jesus.
Now, it’s likely that you might not always feel like a ‘Peter’ kind of Christian—taking bold steps, leading the charge, or preaching in public. But God loves working through people like Andrew—those who live faithfully, humbly, and intentionally, creating opportunities for others to encounter Christ.
Reflection Verse
“Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus.” — John 1:40-42
When was the last time you brought someone to meet Jesus, perhaps through an invitation, an encouraging word, or even just by living out your faith in front of them?
On this St. Andrew’s Day, I’d encourage you to reflect on how you can boldly yet humbly point others to Christ, just as Andrew did. Maybe there’s a colleague who needs to hear about your faith over a lunch break (cue generously sharing your Tesco meal deal). Or perhaps it’s a close friend or family member who’s going through a tough time, needing to hear God’s love through your words or actions.
Here’s the beauty of St. Andrew’s example—it wasn’t about his strength, but his obedience. And that’s the kind of heart God blesses.
A Moment to Reflect
Is there someone you’ve been meaning to share your faith with but haven’t yet had the courage to speak up? Ask God today to give you the words and an opportunity to step out in faith.
Encouraging Action
Why not take a step today and invite someone to your next church service or small group? You never know—your quiet invitation could be the start of a transformation in their life, just like Andrew’s introduction led Peter to Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of St. Andrew, who boldly and humbly pointed others to Your Son, Jesus. Help me to live with the same courage and obedience, even when it feels out of my comfort zone. Show me the opportunities You’ve placed around me to share Your love, and give me the strength to step out in faith. Thank You that You can take even the smallest actions of faith and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
