Matthew 4:18-22 NRSVue

18As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishers. 19And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of people.” 20Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them. 22Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.


Reflection on Matthew 4:18-22

Inspiration from 2024-11-30 Daily Prayer

Andrew was somewhat overshadowed by his brother Simon Peter. He, too, was a fisherman who left his nets to fish for people. Jesus and his way became the focus. May we have the freedom to hear the Lord’s call anew and leave aside what is not needed in following him.

We have arrived at the end of the Church year, but it is like a cycle that begins again with Advent, as we prepare to welcome Jesus anew. May we draw strength from Andrew to remain centred on the Lord, to welcome his call and the mission he shares with us.

Further reflection

Peter, Andrew, James and John responded to Jesus immediately. I think of how slow my reactions are, see what holds me back and talk to Jesus about it.


Jesus called the fishermen, speaking to them in terms they recognised. Jesus calls me as I am, wanting me to use my skills and abilities to draw others to life.


Peter, Andrew, James and John responded to Jesus immediately. I think of how slow my reactions are, see what holds me back and talk to Jesus about it.


Jesus called the fishermen, speaking to them in terms they recognised. Jesus calls me as I am, wanting me to use my skills and abilities to draw others to life.


In this passage, Peter, Andrew, James and John literally drop everything and respond to Jesus's invitation, without any questions. It sounds almost too simple.