Jesus teaches us that the first requirement of becoming His disciples is to renounce oneself, take up one's cross, and follow Him. (Mt. 16:24).

St Andrew and his brother St Peter were among the first disciples called by Jesus. Though the Synoptic Gospels narrated it differently from the Gospel of John, they were nevertheless called. The narratives reflect a similar situation in which the two saints identified Jesus as the Messiah and instantly renounced themselves and, after that, witnessed their belief without remorse. Their faith is our model.

To renounce oneself and follow Jesus is easier to say than to do. Carrying one's cross is not an easy task because the sufferings of the cross are sometimes unbearable. But Jesus has proven that all sorrows are worthwhile because great joys and happiness are attained through them.

Jesus teaches us: "you will be universally hated on account of My name, but anyone who stands firm to the end will be saved" (Mt. 10:22). Standing firm for Jesus is a prerequisite for being saved. St Andrew stood firm in living out Jesus' teachings. He and other saints now enjoy eternal life in heaven and glorify and worship the Trinity.