Andrew - The First Called
This is a first-person account from Andrew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. As the first-called disciple, Andrew offers a unique perspective on following Jesus and bringing others to faith.
Greetings, I am Andrew, often known as "the first-called" among Jesus's disciples. Before I tell you my story, I want you to know that my greatest joy has always been not in being first, but in bringing others to meet Jesus. You see, my journey began on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, in the fishing village of Bethsaida, where I worked as a fisherman alongside my brother Simon, whom you might know better as Peter.
My Journey to Jesus
I was initially a follower of John the Baptist. I can still vividly remember that transformative day when John pointed to Jesus and declared, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" Something stirred in my soul at those words, and I knew I had to follow Him. That decision changed not only my life but set in motion a chain of events that would impact countless others.
The first thing I did after spending that day with Jesus was to find my brother Simon. I can still hear my own excited voice telling him, "We have found the Messiah!" This became a pattern in my life – discovering the treasure that is Jesus and immediately wanting to share Him with others.
A Life of Bringing Others to Christ
You might wonder what it means to be the "first-called" apostle. While it's true that I was the first to follow Jesus among the twelve, I've always found more joy in being a bridge-builder, someone who connects others to Jesus. Let me share a few moments that capture this:
- When thousands were hungry and the situation seemed impossible, I was the one who noticed the boy with five loaves and two fish. While others saw scarcity, I saw an opportunity to bring someone – and their modest offering – to Jesus.
- Later, when some Greeks came seeking Jesus, they approached me first. Perhaps it was because I could speak their language, or maybe because they had heard I was approachable. Whatever the reason, I've always been grateful for these opportunities to bridge different communities to Christ.
From Fisherman to Fisher of Men
My background as a fisherman taught me much about patience, observation, and the importance of using the right approach. Just as different fish require different methods, I've learned that each person's journey to faith is unique. Sometimes it requires quiet conversation, other times bold proclamation, but always with genuine care and attention to the individual before you.
The Joy of Supporting Roles
While my brother Peter often took center stage, I found my greatest fulfillment in working behind the scenes, noticing those on the margins, and helping others discover their own path to faith. There's a special joy in being the one who makes the introduction, who builds the bridge, who opens the door for others to encounter Jesus.
A Message for Today
To those reading this in your time, I want you to know that the work of bringing others to Jesus continues. Whether you find yourself in the spotlight or working quietly in the background, know that every role in God's kingdom matters. The simple act of noticing someone, making an introduction, or building a bridge can change not just one life, but generations to come.
Remember, it's not about being first or being known – it's about helping others find their way to Jesus. That's the greatest calling any of us can have.
In my years of following Jesus, I've learned that true discipleship isn't about position or recognition – it's about the joy of helping others discover what you've found. Whether you're a leader like my brother Peter or someone who prefers to work behind the scenes like myself, there's a place for you in God's story.
What matters most is not who comes first, but that we all come to Jesus and help others do the same.