Someone once asked a famous conductor what he thought was the most difficult instrument in the orchestra to play. Without hesitating, he replied “second fiddle.” Have you had that role? Maybe you were second string quarterback, or first runner up to the scholarship winner, or perhaps you were the second or third child in a family of over-achievers. Or, you are a pastor’s wife. If so, you know what it means to play second fiddle.

Andrew knew, too. His brother was Simon Peter, the bold, brash, bigger-than-life fisherman-disciple whose highs and lows pepper the pages of the Gospels. Andrew was the brother in Peter’s shadow, but he was reliable, consistent and humble. His agenda was simply to do the work of Jesus, and it didn’t matter to him who got credit for it. He brought his brother Peter to Christ. He brought others, as well. But as far as we know, he never preached a sermon or led a revival meeting. He was strictly a behind-the-scenes guy.

On one occasion, the great Simon Peter stood and preached, and 3,000 people came to Christ. Do you know how many Andrew won that day? Andrew won 3,001 – because it was Andrew who first won Peter. He went home and told his big brother, “I’ve met a man I want to follow. And you should meet Him too.” And based on Andrew’s recommendation, Peter did go to Jesus. So every time Peter stood and wooed great throngs of people to the Lord, Andrew had a part in that work.

Second fiddle, you see, is a very, very important instrument in God’s orchestra. What instrument do you play?