Duc In Altum

Today’s Gospel Luke 5:1-11, is a great reading that leads us in to the start of Lent. To sum it up: Simon and his partners had been fishing all night long; they are tired, and have not caught a thing. Just as they are preparing to pack up for the day, Jesus comes to them and says, “Put out into deep water”. Simon says “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets”. As the cast their nets into deep water, their nets begin to fill so much that both boats are about to sink. Simon falls to Jesus’ knees and says, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man”. Jesus picks him up and says “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men, come follow me”.

This story is not one to just skim over, rather it’s a story that we need to take to heart. Duc in altum Latin meaning “put out into the deep”.  Duc in altum! This is the great challenge for us, especially as Lent is 3 days away.  Duc in altum is telling us that Jesus knows what is best for our life. He knows we are destined for greatness, wishes to reveal His will for us, and if we follow Duc in altum we can achieve the greatness that waits for us. Duc in altum is also a call for a greater trust in Jesus’ love, and in God’s plans for us. We need to be like Simon and say “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets”.   Duc in altum needs to be our theme for Lent. We need to find a way to allow Jesus to take us deeper, to allow us to fall deeper in love with Him, which in return it allows to love others deeper.  Jesus, help us to say yes to your love and will for us. Help us to Duc in altum this Lent.  Give us the Grace love like you love.  Amen.