Andy lived in a small town surrounded by family and friends. He was known as a hard worker who was more comfortable in the background rather than the spotlight. He was one of those people about whom others always have something good to say.
In his young adult years, he worked in the family business in the shadow of his older brother, Pete. He and Pete had a wonderful working relationship and their business did well. Andy seemed to have a knack for finding new customers for the family business, while Pete accomplished much of the day-to -day work.
After several years, Andy was recruited by a well-known businessman from a different city. His new job was also one where he was able to work quietly in the background bringing in new business for his employer. It seemed almost weekly Andy was signing up a new customer, which pleased his new boss. Andy was all about customer service. He was confident that his employer’s product was of the highest quality and his confidence increased the customer’s confidence in the product and company. Over the course of three years, Andy grew the business of his employer by leaps and bounds. He never seemed to resent those in the organization who sought the spotlight or were successful in the areas in which they worked. He knew they were all working toward the same goal: success of the employer’s business which translated into success for each employee.
While many of the employees were intimidated by or shy around their boss, Andy seemed quite comfortable in his presence. Eventually, Andy became a trusted advisor to the boss and was given free and intimate access at any time.
One day, after Andy had worked at the company a few months, he introduced his brother Pete to his employer. The employer hired Pete on the spot, despite the fact that Pete was not looking for a job. Pete was a natural in the business. He worked hard over the years and eventually led the business after their employer’s death. Andy never seemed to resent Pete or the seemingly important place in the world Pete occupied. Andy knew he was responsible for bringing Pete to his employer’s attention and that gave him great satisfaction.
This is the story of the apostle Andrew. Almost every time we see Andrew in the Scriptures, he is bringing someone to Jesus. He brought his brother Peter to Jesus. He never sought the spotlight and never resented Peter’s leadership position among the apostles or in the early church. Andrew was content to work in the background, bringing others to Jesus. When Andrew’s name is mentioned, nowhere in Scripture do we find any dishonor being attached to him.
Andrew’s legacy reminds us that working diligently in the background, without great fanfare or recognition, can have important eternal impact. God can use the Andrews in this world just as greatly as he uses the Peters.
MEDITATION MOMENT: Do you know an ‘Andrew’–someone who enjoys working in the background, never seeking the limelight and never resenting those who do have the spotlight on them? Share about your ‘Andrew’.
