Readings:
Colossians 1: 9-14
Luke 5: 1-11
Reflection:
Our first reading is part of a letter Apostle Paul, from prison, sent to the community of Colossae. This community was set up by Epaphras. Paul has not been there or met the community. But he’s kept informed of the state of the faith and practice of the community. Paul is very encouraging. Seems that the community had been given some “New Age” ideas by people who did not really understand the message of Jesus and the story of his resurrection. So, from a distance, Paul is gently concerned that they keep their eyes and their hearts on Jesus Christ, who is the foundation of their faith.
“From the first day we heard of you, we have never failed to pray for you. What we ask of God that through perfect wisdom and spiritual understanding, you reach the fullest knowledge of his will. So you will be able to lead the kind of life the Lord expects of you, a life acceptable to him in all aspects.”
So wisdom and spiritual understanding are the gifts we need to navigate the rapids and dangerous waters of life. This means we will be able to negotiate the choices we are asked to bring. As I write this, the date has been announced when we will all have to say Yes or No to the “Voice” to allow our indigenous sisters and brothers to find their way, along with us all, into the equal heart of life and justice. Are we willing to travel along together? This is what perfect wisdom and spiritual understanding looks like in a modern setting. We should all be able to breathe clean, fresh air and to live good, equal and hopeful lives alongside every person who also has the right to life.
Jesus speaks from the gospel: “Put out into deep water and pay out your nets for a catch”. This request comes after they have had a bad night, no luck, no bites, nothing!
Caught anything lately? Dare I put out into the deep? So, when I face my life with its challenges, do I really believe in the “good news?” Being willing to risk, a dash of daring and, above all, trust that we are never alone as we try to live the kind of life the Lord expects of us. This is all the equipment we need for the journey.
Fr. Kevin Dance CP is the vicar of the St.Brigid’s Retreat, Marrickville. He is very actively involved in ministries locally and at Passionist International where he served as the Executive Director for many years.