The Power of the Word

Funny how we are never satisfied...always finding fault, always wanting the change things. It's too hot, too muggy, too cold. Want to lose weight, want to gain muscle, want peace and quiet, want more time, never enough time... On and on goes the list. Jesus gives us a hint to finding the ultimate satisfaction (in him) through the Parable of the Sower and the Seed. The same seed falls to the ground, but the results are different. Not the fault of the seed, as Jesus explains, but of the location in which it falls. The first location lacks understanding, and is soon choked by distractions provided by the Evil One. The second lacks depth and withers away in the face of trial. The seed among thorns chokes on the false promises of wealth, and fame totally contrary to its purpose. Only when the seed falls on deep and fertile understanding does it bear fruit. In a sense, it has to be given permission to crack open and send out roots and stalks. God grants us the freedom to accept or reject his Word, which comes to us in Scripture, the Eucharist and in our daily contact with others. It is a powerful freedom, a scary freedom, but when exercised in harmony with his will, it bears fruit that will last and fruit that satisfies the longings of our restless hearts.
Bro. Rene