Slideshow image

40 One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. 41 He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). 42 He brought Simon[b] to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon, son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).

 

There is more than one right answer. More than one right way to solve a problem, see the world, respond to a situation. There is more than one right way to be a disciple of Christ.

In this part of John’s gospel, we are introduced to two different types of discipleship, two very different types of leaders.

The first is Andrew. Andrew is the one with enthusiasm. He’s chatty, connected, and eager. It is Andrew’s immediate response to hearing about Jesus that causes the Good News Fire to spread. There is an urgency in Andrew’s actions- he literally “brings” his brother Simon to Jesus. What an example of faith, of leadership!

Our second type of discipleship is seen in Simon (Andrew’s brother). He is depicted here as passive; he is the recipient of his brother's enthusiasm. Yet, without saying a word, Simon somehow exudes power. Jesus recognizes this right away and re-names Simon. Simon becomes Peter or Rock. His silence and steadiness are his strength, his way of being a leader and a disciple.

Jesus calls us all into a life a discipleship- there is room for all, more than one right way to be a disciple, to be a leader in God’s kingdom. Whether you are urgent or passive, chatty or quiet, your charisms are God-given. Come with the gifts you have and follow Christ.

God, thank you for making me a disciple. Show me how to lead. Amen.

Karen Cauley

Prayer concern: For those who think they have no gifts for leadership.