Red Deer Catholic Schools Faith Day Homily

The history of faith in our human life somehow goes in waves. Yes, like a wave it rises high and falls down. A man is full of the grace of God, love and admiration for God. God's power makes certain provisions, the promises of God give ourselves some assurances. We are constantly being strengthened by grace, feeling within ourselves the power of God, and acting like Peter: "Lord if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." We can feel the enthusiasm in his voice. We can feel the love when Peter's heart explodes.

Yes, he loved Jesus, and he was willing to do anything. He was very emotional. Did everything right away, working here and now. He would "blow up" in some cases and then bitterly repent and apologize for it.

Jesus loved him, and Jesus chose him to be the head of the church! How much effort did he have to put out to move his soul, his character  and personality? How much did he have to put into finally be Peter--the Rock Church?

Now at night, on the lake, again emotions run high. Carried by admiration for his Master, who wanted him to approach the water, his heart and soul are torn. At that moment he knew that everything is possible--because it is Jesus. He carried within him love, emotions, the feeling of admiration, and a desire to be close to Jesus and delight in His person. When he was at a distance from the boat and somewhat "weary", he realized what he was doing. His mind, not his heart, reacted and took over Peter. He quickly assessed the situation. Logically, intellectually, and practically. Cannot walk on the  water!  At this point a strong gust of wind hit him and he began to sink.

Where there is a lack of faith, there is no miracle, which is based on faith. Peter fell into the water. He began to sink. Each one of us experiences the same thing in life as Peter did. Many times under the influence of grace, we feel strong, so strong that it seems our faith is unshakable. We have great confidence. Nothing can now separate us from the love of Jesus. We provide and make provisions. Emotions often prevail. We go out into the middle of the lake. However, when we look around we see that we probably exaggerated. Deep water, boat out far, waves high, and then a gentle breeze and suddenly we lose all confidence, and faith in God and from the deck we fall into the water. Then we are completely filled with anxiety and in a loud voice call out: "Lord save me."

Today we are experiencing our faith. Faith accompanying us on this journey will not always be perfect as Peter experienced, but it is precisely in this imperfection that Jesus built from scratch, a man of strong faith. So, let us say, as Peter said: "Lord save us," and expect that something will begin to change. Let our life both as a teacher and a man be a "crazy" love for God, and all this be a determinant of who we are and what we do. And, when we begin to sink, let us believe that He is closer to us than we can ever remember.