Gospel Reading
"Hear then the parable of the sower.
The seed sown on the path is the one
who hears the word of the kingdom without understanding it,
and the evil one comes and steals away
what was sown in his heart.
The seed sown on rocky ground
is the one who hears the word and receives it at once with joy.
But he has no root and lasts only for a time.
When some tribulation or persecution comes because of the word,
he immediately falls away.
The seed sown among thorns is the one who hears the word,
but then worldly anxiety and the lure of riches choke the word
and it bears no fruit.
But the seed sown on rich soil
is the one who hears the word and understands it,
who indeed bears fruit and yields a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold."
Reflection
Praised be Jesus Christ!
One of the common themes of developing a spiritual life is the example of agriculture and gardening. Summer is the time for growing, farming, and gardening in our Diocese. As such, we have a great example all around us in developing our spiritual life.
The First Reading reminds us that every word that comes from the mouth of God will not be wasted. It is God's intention that His Word bear much fruit.
The Gospel shows the generosity of God. The sower broadly sows the seed, allowing it to go everywhere. No farmer would waste seed in this manner. He would only sow seed where it has the best possibility to germinate. But God wants the Word (seed) to be bestowed on everyone. HOW we receive the Word is up to us. From time to time, we may be spiritually like the path, rocks, or thorns. He sends His Word anyway, hoping we will become the spiritually fertile soil to nurture the Word and bear fruit in our lives of faith.
As we continue during the summer season, let us spend some time to cultivate and enrich our prayer life to more openly receive the fruitful Word of God. As always, know of my prayers before Our Lord in the Most Blessed Sacrament.
+ Bishop Schlert
