COME!

SABBATH

A little more than a week ago, we celebrated the dedication of St. John Lateran Basilica. Today we celebrate the memorial of two basilicas in Rome — Sts. Peter and Paul. Both basilicas share the same date though one is slightly older than the other. The Basilica of St. Peter is on top of the tomb of St. Peter. He was crucified upside down during the great persecution in Rome under Emperor Nero, 64 A.D. The Basilica of St. Paul is on Via Ostia, outside the ancient city walls of Rome. Paul was beheaded with a sword, as the legend goes; his head bounced three times, hence the Tre Fontan (Three Fountains). The story narrated by Matthew is a delightful story of placing our trust in the Lord. The Apostles, caught in a violent storm on the Sea of Galilee, are struggling. Interestingly, the waters are the places whereby evil reign. It is no wonder that in their fright, the Apostles scream that the one walking on the water is a ghost. Immediately, Jesus calms their fears by calling out to them. As Peter begins to walk on the water, I guess the greatest mistake he made was to look down. The moment he perceived the wind, he  became frightened and began to sink. From this account, we notice that the Lord is always willing to save. We just need to call upon His name and we shall be saved. Jesus always encourages us: Do not be afraid! Perhaps we are to take the risk, similar to Peter, to step out of the boat. The boat represents that comfort zone where we would rather stay because it is a shelter from the storm. In fact, Peter is the bravest of all the Apostles — perhaps the most stupid also! Yes, he takes the step of faith. He believes in Jesus. He is ready to follow the call of the Lord. Certainly, in our lives, the winds may become fierce and the storm so destructive, but the Lord is always ready to hasten to our aid. Fr. Brian Steele, MGL   Reflection Question: Is Jesus calling you to step out of the boat?   Faithful and kind God, I place my faith in You. Do not abandon me when I call upon Your name. Amen.   St. Odo, pray for us.