Saturday, 24th Week in Ordinary Time
Today’s gospel passage gives us the Parable of the Sower and its interpretation or explanation. Jesus says, “The seed is the word of God.”
Then he explains, “Those on the path are the ones who have heard, but the evil one comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved.” The Word of God is constantly spoken to us. But are we hearing it? Without hearing or listening, we become ‘deaf’ What should we do to hear and understand the Word of God? Read and study the Bible – start right now. Read some spiritual books and the lives of the saints – those who lived by the Word of God. Open your mind to the spiritual dimension…understand the language of the Spirit.
Jesus also explains, “Those on rocky ground are the ones who, when they hear, receive the word with joy, but they have no root; they believe only for a time and fall away in time of trial.” The Lord is talking here of a very common situation: people listen to the Word with joy; they are touched; but they do not make it the foundation of their lives. The Word of God must take root in us and in our daily living. We must allow it to affect our minds and hearts, our choices and decisions, our deeds and actions, our behaviors and attitudes, our relationships and priorities. The Word of God must have a great influence and impact on the different aspects of our lives.
Jesus also explains, “As for the seed that fell among thorns, they are the ones who have heard, but as they go along, they are choked by the anxieties and riches and pleasures of life, and they fail to produce mature fruit.” Worldly anxiety about what am I to eat and drink, what am I to do to get my wants and needs, such anxiety chokes the Word of God. The allurement of material wealth and possessions, of political power and influence, of fame and popularity, of success and achievement, of entertainment and pleasure…such allurement also chokes the Word of God.
Today’s parable provides hope and encouragement: that the Sower succeeds ultimately in producing fruit from the seed that fell on good soil. With God’s grace, let us make ourselves good soil for the Word of God.
Parokya ni Osong 