Mk 4:26-34
Jesus also said, “In the kingdom of God it is like this: a man scatters seed upon the soil. Whether he is asleep or awake, be it day or night, the seed sprouts and grows, he knows not how. The soil produces of itself: first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. And when it is ripe for harvesting, they take the sickle for the cutting: the time for the harvest has come.”
Jesus also said, “What is the kingdom of God like? To what shall we compare it? It is like a mustard seed which, when sown, is the smallest of all the seeds scattered upon the soil. But once sown, it grows up and becomes the largest of the plants in the garden, and even grows branches so big, that the birds of the air can take shelter in its shade.”
Jesus used many such stories, in order to proclaim the word to them in a way that they would be able to understand. He would not teach them without parables; but privately to his disciples he explained everything.
REFLECTION
READ: Our readings for today describe how the tree that grows refers to the way the Kingdom of God develops in every person and in the world. The first reading says that a tree comes from a tender twig while the gospel says it comes from a small seed. The Kingdom of God begins from the tiny seed of the Word of God. It is not noisy nor showy but it grows and produces fruit as it transforms one’s life. The second reading connects with this theme as it describes the concluding point of this development. At the end of life, people will see a new person that has been transformed and becomes like the seed. This marks the beginning of a new life in Christ.
REFLECT: The Kingdom of God grows in the hearts of people amidst all opposing appearances. Remember that the Spirit of the Lord is deep within our hearts. In spite all hardships, the Spirit will continue to inspire us to do what is good and produce good results – however big or little that would be. Often, we are tempted to despise small things; it is easier for us to appreciate and respect big things that easily can be noticed. But again we are being reminded to be truly convinced that we are small seeds ready to disappear underground to give rise to the large tree that is the Kingdom of God. How am I assessing myself now as a small seed?
PRAY: Lord, as we do our tasks in the ordinariness of life, sometimes we are lost in the immediate pleasure or prestige we gain from the material things that you give us. Inspire us to be more attuned to what are the essentials of our following you, living in community or family where the seed of your love has to be nurtured and allowed to grow amidst apparently unending trials and difficulties. Amen.
ACT: Identify the little ones in your community or family – those who are taken for granted, rejected, despised or separated. Take time to pray and visit them if possible and share your concern and support for them.
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