After saying this, he called out, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” Then his disciples asked him what the meaning of this parable might be. He answered, “Knowledge of the mysteries of the Kingdom of God has been granted to you; but to the rest, they are made known through parables so that they may look but not see, and hear but not understand.
Today's gospel begins with Saint Luke's remark that people travelled from many towns and long distances. He doesn't say exactly why they came, but we can suppose the majority brought their loved ones to be healed. A few were driven by curiosity and might volunteer to be disciples.
Given the opportunity of the moment, Jesus's response must be off putting. They came all this way to hear a remark with no apparent meaning? Most of a farmer's broadcast seed fails to take root, flourish, and fructify. But some does.
Yes, and...? There is absolutely nothing new about that!
"Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear!" Hear what? When Jesus made a similar remark in Capernaum they wanted to throw him over the cliff!
To his disciples he will reveal his meaning: it's not easy to follow him. Once you set your hands to the plow, don't look back.
Of course, that observation accompanies a universal truth: it's not easy to be human. Millions of Americans today are daily confronted with the question, "Why shouldn't I kill myself?" Many cannot answer the question and do take their own lives. Far more forestall the question with alcohol, improper use of drugs, internet/television, or some other useless pastime.
But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.”
Because it is not easy to be human or to be a disciple of Jesus, he gives us his Holy Spirit, a readiness to embrace the word eagerly, "with a generous and good heart."
If you think it comes automatically, as if you're some kind of machine that revs up when there is gas in the tank and spark in the plugs, you'll find yourself sitting idly in the garage, going no where. We must go the extra mile, lend a jacket and a shirt, give to anyone who asks, and turn the other cheek.
Is it easy? No. That's why God gives us his Spirit.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.