Readings: Hebrews 10:11-18, Psalm 110 and Mark 4:1-20
“When the sun rose, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away.” (Mark 4:6)
- In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus gave us the parable of the sower, in which he explained the different types of persons who receive the word and their reactions to it. From this parable, we learn one fact: people are different! Never expect everybody to react the same way or behave the same way. In other words, everybody is not like you. While it may seem effortless for you, some people will have to struggle to accomplish what you take for granted.
- This calls for sympathy in our judgement of others. Rather than condemning people, try to understand why they act that way. Instead of writing off any student, a good teacher will change his method until he can meet the student at his level. Don’t be too quick to write anyone off. Who knows? They may be seeds that fell on a road path, on rocky ground, or perhaps among thorns.
- Another important lesson we learn from this parable is that our love for riches constitutes thorns capable of choking our spiritual growth. As Jesus would warn: “You cannot serve both God and mammon.” Do you aspire for Sainthood or to be on the cover of Forbes Magazine? Are you working hard to be one of the richest persons in this country or one of those whose moral legacy will always be mentioned as an example for the next generation?
- Let us consider those seeds that fell on rocky ground. These are really good Christians who are excited about God's things but lack roots in them. They cannot withstand trials because they are sweet-sweet-milk-and-sugar Christians. For them, serving God means never experiencing a headache or tough time. These Christians are quick to change their church or even stop attending church altogether once they face any setback in life.
- Could this be where you belong? Can your faith remain steadfast in the face of adversity? How long can you last if prayers are not answered? Somehow, all of us, at one point or the other, would be subjected to rocky situations in our lives. Like the Israelites, we will walk through the desert without knowing the beautiful Promised Land ahead. Pray always for the gift of patience. Don’t give up. Just keep pushing.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, we may not have been planted on the right soil, but we beg you to meet us where we are so that we may bear fruits. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Wednesday of week 3 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Hebrews 10:11-18, Psalm 110 and Mark 4:1-20).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu