The Kingdom of God

 

Scripture readings for this reflection can be found Friday of the Third Week of Ordinary Time | USCCB

In our gospel for today the Lord is comparing the Kingdom of God to that of seeds being scattered and growing day by day. The farmer is unaware of how this will happen. He would do his part to nurture the seed by watering and cultivating the ground and allowing the sun to do its part in order for the seeds to grow into full plants, rising towards the sun. The Lord also mentions the mustard seed going from the smallest seeds to the largest of plants.

The seeds mentioned in today’s gospel is comparable to that of our faith in God. The seed was planted at our baptism, whether we were baptized as children or as adults, the seed was planted in us when the water was poured over us and the words of baptism was said by the priest or deacon. Our faith at the time of baptism is small and needs nurturing for it to grow. It is through those around us that our faith is watered and we can grow in relationship with the Lord. As we grow and mature in our faith, we need to take an active part in cultivating it by the regular study of scripture and the precepts of the church. It is through regular study that we can come to a better understanding of who the Lord is in our life and our relationship with Him.  

Further, the regular use of the sacraments, such as receiving Holy Communion often, or going to confession on a regular basis can keep our faith alive and growing. This will be pleasing to God. This is how the Kingdom of God will grow within us and we can get closer to the Lord Jesus.

Further, our own lives can be “seeds” for other people in their faith journey to the Lord. By sharing our faith with others, or by simply praying for them, it will help the kingdom of God grow in them.

Let us continue to grow in our faith by turning to God daily to lead us closer to him. Let us always be open to how God is talking to us through scripture and with His Sacraments. It will be then that we can grow in a way pleasing to God.