Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Rudolf Horst SVD – Christ the King Seminary, Quezon City
Thursday 22nd Week in Ordinary Time
At the close of the Great Jubilee Year 2000, Pope John Paul II gave the Church a guiding theme for the new millennium: “Duc in altum – Put out into the deep!” These words of Jesus in today’s Gospel were addressed to a weary Simon Peter, who had fished all night without catching a single fish (Luke 5:4).
Like Peter, we often feel exhausted and discouraged. Priests who labor tirelessly yet see little fruit, teachers who struggle with unresponsive students, parents who sacrifice for their children only to watch them drift away from faith—all echo Peter’s words: “Master, we have worked hard all night and caught nothing” (Luke 5:5).
It is precisely at such moments of fatigue and resignation that Jesus speaks: “Put out into the deep.” For disciples of Christ, resignation is not an option. We are drawn into the dynamics of His mission, sent again and again into the “deep”—into the risky, uncertain, and challenging places of life. There, we discover the power of His word and the fruitfulness of His call.
The Eucharist reflects this rhythm. We come to Mass often tired, like Peter in his boat, listening to the Master’s teaching. And at the end, the priest proclaims: “Ite, missa est – Go, the Mass is celebrated!” It is the same call: “Duc in altum – Put out into the deep!”
The liturgy is not an end in itself but a sending forth. We are missionaries, sent to the world with Christ’s authority and promise.
Peter obeyed, and the result was astonishing: an incredible catch of fish. Likewise, when we trust Jesus and venture into the deep, we will experience His help and see fruit beyond our expectations. “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men” (Luke 5:10).
A Final Reflection
“Duc in altum” is both a challenge and a promise. It calls us to courage, perseverance, and trust in Christ’s word. It assures us that even in exhaustion and apparent failure, the Lord’s mission continues — and His grace will bring abundance.
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
