Who Do I Relate To? Andrew?

Have you ever known someone who seems to have it all and still is looking for more? Not satisfied with all he has? Or, maybe knows something is missing in his life? Well, that was Andrew.

He was a fisherman from the Bethsaida/Capernaum area. So, he had to be a strong muscular man from all the years of pulling in nets filled with fish. The book of Luke tells us he and his brother were business partners with Zebedee's sons, who by the way employed workers. (Luke 5)

His house was big enough to hold more than one family in it, and several after-temple gatherings...so he was a well-to-do man, not wealthy, but better off than most in those days. (Mark 1)

So, in other words, he led a fulfilled life as many might see it. He was in great physical shape, had a thriving business, and a house many would have desired. Yet, he was seeking more.

In his search for more he went to hear John the Baptist and ended up staying, even becoming a disciple of his. He was there when Jesus returned after his forty days of temptation, and when John the Baptist specifically pointed out Jesus as the Lamb of God, Andrew and John followed Jesus immediately without hesitation. And after spending a short period of time with Jesus he went to fetch his brother. (John 1)

He was spreading the word.

And when the time was right to begin their travels, Jesus came to Andrew's place of business and called for him. Andrew just dropped it all to follow him. No questions asked. No requests to inform his family of his whereabouts. (Matthew 4)

He had the right priorities in his life.

Have you ever been looking in the right direction at the right time and see something no one else sees? That was Andrew when he spotted the boy with the fish and loaves when it was time to feed the multitude. (John 6)

Have you ever gone to help a friend out and had it bite you back? That was Andrew when he helped Philip with a request. (John 12)

Have you ever been a close friend to someone who knew all the answers and you wanted to know them too? Andrew was the number four man of the inner circle around Jesus. And, like the rest of them, he desired to know the details of the destruction of Jerusalem, and the future. (Mark 13)

I can relate to his desire to know the Messiah, it is a daily part of my journey through life. As far as the end of time details, it is the subject of many sermons and Bible studies. We're all curious.

I can say that I am not always able to drop what I'm working on and just leave it. I suppose, though, if Jesus were standing there in person and directing me it might be more easily done.

Andrew is said to have preached in Asia Minor, Greece and Scythia before being crucified on a St. Andrew's cross, which is 'X' shaped. There are many verses to peruse regarding Andrew: Mt 4:18-20; 10:2. Mark 1:16-20, 29-31; 3:18; 13:1-23. Luke 5:1-11; 6:14. John 1:35-44; 6:8-9; 12:20-22; Acts 1:13.