“Come,” He replied, “and you will see.” (John 1:39)
Our Lord spoke these words to St. Andrew, whose feast day is today (Nov. 30). Church tradition often calls Andrew “the first called,” because he is the first disciple to whom Christ says “come” in the Gospel of John.
In this invitation, we see more than just a call to Andrew. We also see the simple truth that Jesus has no desire to hide anything from His disciples, but to be perfectly open and even vulnerable to them—indeed, He puts His life in their hands: “Take, eat, this is my body, given for you.”
How fitting, then, that St. Andrew’s feast day stands at the joint where one Church Year turns to another. For what is the preaching of the Church but Jesus laying Himself bare? And what is the Church Year but a year-long sermon series on Christ and His kingdom?
“Come, and you will see.” It’s God’s promise to every sinner who calls on the name of the Lord. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
LET US PRAY: We thank you, Lord, for Andrew, whom You graciously called to share in Your life. Pour out Your Holy Spirit on Your Church, that this new year of preaching will lay bare the glory of Your Gospel for all who hear it; for You live and reign with the Father and Holy Spirit. Amen
Pastor Steven K. Gjerde
Zion, Wausau
