As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers,
Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew,
casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen.
He said to them,
“Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

matthew 4:18-19

Matthew 4:18-22

Reflection

In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls the first four disciples – Peter, Andrew, James, and John. Both sets of brothers are fishing when Jesus calls them, and both leave everything behind to follow him.

It is interesting to note that both brothers choose to follow Jesus, not just one or the other. They were both spiritually called to Jesus and could journey together with him. Do you have a spiritual brother or sister that you journey with on your interior life?

It is beautiful when two people are connected at a spiritual level, able to discuss spiritual matters intimately, be held accountable, and most of all, journey towards Christ with. This person doesn’t have to be related to you, but they certainly can be.

Although our spiritual journeys are ultimately ours alone, it is nice to share it with someone, too. Reflect on how Peter and Andrew, James and John left all behind but each other. As individuals, they drew closer to Christ, but almost certainly with each other’s help.

Reflect on how you and your spiritual brother/sister can grow in relationship with Jesus. If you don’t believe you have such a person, ask Jesus if he is calling you to someone for such a purpose. Jesus is our best friend, but he gives us others to help us deepen our relationship with him.

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Saint of the Day

St. Andrew the Apostle

St. Andrew was the brother of Simon Peter and is believed to have been close to Jesus. After the Resurrection and Ascension, Andrew began preaching the Gospel message to areas of Turkey and Greece. He was martyred by crucifixion on an X-shaped cross. He is the patron saint of fishermen and singers. St. Andrew, pray for us!