By Sister Justine Nutz, SSND
Our August board in Bridgeport shares this message from Matthew 14:27: Courage! It is I! Be not afraid.
The gold star doubles as our Christmas star, and the dancing starfish is from Haiti.
The words to the song Put your hand in the hand of the man who stilled the water are displayed alongside the major piece of art.
The smaller artwork and explanation are of Rembrandt’s only seascape (The Storm on the Lake, with the sleeping Jesus and the terrified apostles).
The major piece of art is by Sieger Koder (1925- 2016), a German priest-artist, showing the drowning Peter clasping the strong hand of Jesus with both his hands as the terrified apostles look on. Koder called this painting Stronghold.
In German, It is I translates to Ich bin's, a less formal, more familiar way of referring to oneself, equivalent to It's me! As Jesus encourages Peter to leave the boat and step out onto the water, Jesus says in German, Come, Peter, it's me, Jesus! Don't be afraid.
We know what happens. Peter begins to walk, loses focus, sinks, and desperately grabs the hand of Jesus.
Koder captures the moment when the submerged Peter knows he is safe - when he feels Jesus as his strength and only hope.
We have had moments like this in our own lives - perhaps even at this moment. Do you need courage now?
The August 2025 bulletin board at 3030 Park in Bridgeport, CT
