September 3, St. Gregory the Great

The Lord has made known his salvation.--Psalm 98:2

Mass readings: Colossians 1:9-14 / Luke 5:1-11

'Put Out into Deep Water'

That phrase from today's Gospel was a favorite line for Pope John Paul II. He used it often while speaking to young people whom he loved dearly. It was also a central theme in the apostolic letter he wrote in 2000. The new millennium called for a new evangelization, he said, and the Church would need to share the Gospel more boldly than ever before.

The late pontiff pointed to the courage and humility of Peter. A seasoned fisherman, Peter had already fished every part of the lake and caught nothing. He also knew that fish were more likely to be caught in the shallows. But he swallowed his pride and cast his net -- into deep water. He trusted Jesus, Pope John Paul said, and the result was nothing short of a miracle.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, help us to listen to Jesus, casting our nets where He tells us.