Brothers and Sisters,
In this week’s Gospel reading, we hear from Jesus how the enemy is at work for our hearts. But it is in this same parable that we must not forget the good seed God sows in each believer’s heart and the patient mercy He uses to cultivate his divine plan within each of us. We are called to be rich soil for this good seed. As rich soil, we are called to allow the seed to take deep root in us and in our lives.
If God’s seed has not sunk deeply in our heart, if our heart is not rich soil and is instead rocky and hardened ground, then we are at risk of being overcome by the world, and the Word of God getting choked off in our lives. What are the weeds that are choking out the wheat God has planted in our hearts? Is it the weeds of doubt and fear, or maybe the weeds of pridefulness or self-centeredness? Are we allowing the truth of God’s Word to penetrate our heart against the lies of our present society? Goodness overcomes evil. Are we striving to live virtuously and bearing fruits of love, kindness, and compassion? This parable serves as a reminder that our actions and choices influence not only the richness of the soil in our own heart but also the world in which we live.
May we find strength and guidance in this parable as we navigate the challenges of the world we live in, remaining steadfast in our faith and allowing God’s grace to transform us into instruments of His love and mercy. We want to be followers that are patient and confident that the Lord is at work in us. May the offering of our lives be an abundantly rich harvest of wheat for the Lord.
God Bless,
Deacon Howard
