26 July, 2024 | Memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, Parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary

 Jer 3:14-17

Gospel Mt 13:18-23

Jesus said to his disciples:

“Hear 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.”

Reflections:

Reflection:

In the parable of the sower Jesus invites us to look into our life and see how we accept the seed, which is God’s Word, each day of our life and how much fruit we produce through our thoughts, words and deeds. If we are willing to do everything required for the Word to transform us, then our life will bear fruits of love and goodness, and we can be sure of our heavenly reward along with earthly joy in our heart. The seeds grows where there is openness to the Word (faith) trust in its power (hope) and a readiness to go out of oneself (love). Are we open to God’s word which has the power to transform us? Do we treasure it in our hearts and are our actions always guided by the Word of God?

Activity: 

Choose a phrase from today’s Gospel and allow it to become a reality in your life this week.