Parables of Seeds

06-16-2024Weekly ReflectionFr. Fred Adamson

Dear Parishioners,

Today we hear Jesus speak to us in parables about seeds. How fun it can be to scatter a packet of wildflower seeds in a pot or patch of ground and then watch them grow not knowing for sure what will pop up and when. What type of flowers will bloom over time? They, of course, need water and sun, but generally will do just fine with little care. They sprout and grow because it is their nature – their very reason for existing – to take root, grow and bloom.

Why does Jesus use these parables for us today about the kingdom and of God? Both help us to develop a deeper trust in Him. Seeds must be planted but once planted cannot be forced to germinate and grow. We can provide nutrients, sun and the right climate to help, but somehow in the makeup of the seed, it will sprout when it is ready. I think Jesus wants us to know that about God, our faith and religion. It takes time and different factors for faith to grow in an individual. It is always in God’s t ime and in His way. What is most important is that we plant the seeds. We are called to be seed scatterers… to scatter God’s love, truth and goodness through our witness and invitation.

Many parents and grandparents experience great heartache because of children who have been raised Catholic and no longer practice the faith. I, too, ponder and pray about the Church today. Statistics reveal that Catholic marriages, baptisms and attendance are steadily decreasing. It can cause discouragement. But we must be people of encouragement, joy and trust. The parables today give us insight that what we are called to do is plant seeds. We can’t force faith to grow in someone – no more than we can force a seed to sprout. WE must trust that if we witness our faith in a humble and loving manner, that in time their faith will flourish.

Of course, as a community there are things we can do to help seeds take root and grow. We provide an atmosphere that is welcoming and focused on Jesus, His Word and Sacrament. We trust that the encounter with Christ is what leads to ongoing conversion. As a community of believers, we strive to support and feed tender sprouts at all ages through formation, prayer and community. Even the seeds of faith in our own lives need watering and refreshment at times. May these parables enrich us as a people of God – so we can better understand His Kingdom and the greatness of His saving plan. We trust in Him.

This Sunday is Father’s Day. A day we remember, thank and give gratitude to the men who have given us life. When I think of a father, words like; creator, builder, wisdom, provider, fixer, strength, courage, protector, partner and comforter come to mind. Men have a unique role in society and in the family to witness the love of our heavenly Father. A father’s witness in the practice of the faith and daily Christian living has a great impact on children and others. We are blessed here at the parish with many opportunities for men to grow in faith including the Men’s Renewal group, This Man is You, and the Knights of Columbus.

I am grateful to God for my own Father, for his example and witness, of my brother, brother-in-law and the many men who I have had the privilege of knowing, who have embraced the spirit of Saint Joseph and his giving of total self to God’s plan. Today, on Father’s Day, we give thanks for the men in our lives and ask God to continue to bless and strengthen them in their fatherly care.

We continue our journey through ordinary time and ask the Lord to help us order our lives to Him so that we may encounter His goodness in everyday ordinary moments.

Peace, joy and goodness in Him,

Fr. Fred