# When You’re Left Out, Reach Out
*2017-12-01*

> Bill reflects on the biblical figure of Andrew, who was often overlooked, and encourages listeners to respond to exclusion with love for Christ and service to others.

## A Recent Talk

Last night I attended a talk by Brother Bernardo of the Franciscans of Life at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church in the Pines area of South Florida. It was an excellent presentation on Scripture, and a second part of the series will be held Monday night at 7:30 p.m. in the chapel. I encourage anyone in the area to attend.

## Andrew the Overlooked Apostle

Our passage today is Matthew 4:18‑20, where Jesus calls Simon Peter and his brother Andrew. Andrew was the first disciple to follow Jesus and even brought Peter to Him. While Peter, James, and John were present at the raising of Jairus’ daughter, the Transfiguration, and the Agony in the Garden, Andrew does not appear in those inner‑circle events.

What does one do when one feels like the “fourth member of a trio”? Many respond with jealousy or self‑pity. Andrew, however, remained faithful to his original commitment. He continued to abandon everything to become a “fisher of men,” serving as a designated evangelist among the apostles. When Greeks asked Philip to take them to Jesus, Philip sent them to Andrew, who then led them to Christ.

Andrew’s example shows that even when we are left out, we can still reach out in love for Jesus.

## Living the Lesson

Jesus Himself was rejected—from His birth in a manger to His death on the cross—yet He reached out to us in love. We are called to emulate Him: when we feel excluded, we should still love and serve Him.

Prayer: “Father, help me not to indulge in pity parties but to join the joy of the Lord. May I confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that He rose from the dead, so that I may be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

St. Andrew later preached the Gospel northeast of the Black Sea, reminding us that God’s work continues beyond the spotlight.

## A Local Concern

In our Legion of Mary meeting we learned that a municipal council near West Palm Beach is considering erecting a non‑Christian statue. We asked for prayers that the decision be guided by wisdom and that no anti‑Christian symbol be placed in a public space. Let us pray for strength to stand firm in our faith.

*When we feel left out, follow Andrew’s example: stay faithful, love Jesus, and reach out to others.*