Every Sunday, Bishop Edward Malesic writes a Scripture reflection for the faithful. Follow the bishop on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Click HERE for the readings.
As we read through today’s readings, particularly the First Reading and the Gospel, first recall that Jesus is the Word of God come in the flesh. That belief is helpful as we interpret these scripture passages.
In the Book of the Prophet Isaiah, God says, “Just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down and do not return there till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful. . . so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; my word shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it.”
God speaks and his Word is effective. God spoke at the beginning of the time, “Let there be light,” and light there was. Jesus is the Word of God spoken over the void at the beginning of creation to make something out of nothing. Jesus is the Word of God spoken over chaos to give it order. Jesus is the Word that comes from the mouth of God to bring about God’s creative will. Jesus is the Word of God who continues to hold all things together, including us.
Now, we turn to the Gospel and the parable of the sower and the seed. The seed is Jesus, the Word of God. God’s Word is sown liberally, on all types of people, in all kinds of places, and at all times. We hear God’s Word in our scriptures. It is whispered in our spiritual ears at unexpected times. It is taught by our Church and proclaimed by missionaries. It is lived in the lives of our saints, but it takes good soil for God’s Word to take lasting root in us.
So, let us cultivate the soil of our lives through the worthy and devout reception of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and frequent confession. Let us cultivate the soil of our lives by daily prayer and the reading of scripture. Let us cultivate the soil of our lives by knowing the teachings of our Church and attempting to live the faith as followers of Jesus. Let us cultivate the soil of our lives by acts of charity, especially to those who are poor and most in need. Let us cultivate the soil of our lives knowing that Jesus continues to speak to us words of forgiveness and peace — and this Word, Jesus, is effective and will not return to the Father until he has achieved the end for which the Father sent it — our salvation. For someday, God’s Word will even make us into saints — if we allow it to take root in the soil of our lives.
Have a blessed week everyone.