Wednesday 23^rd July – Wednesday of week 16 of the year

Reflection: Matthew 13:1-9

THE RIGHT HEART

Jesus presents to us today four different kinds of heart with respect to our attitude towards the Word of God in His parable of the sower. The seeds being sowed are the word of God, and the different places which the seeds fell are the different hearts that hear and perceive the word of God.

Can we identify with any of the pictures Christ paints in this parable? How often do we hear the word of God at Mass and forget all about it in a matter of hours? How often do we find ourselves compromising what we know is right in bid to be “acceptable” to our peers? Do we recall all those moments when we are burdened by difficult situations and we forget the peace and assurance God’s word offers?

Christ tells us that we must prepare our hearts to receive His word if it is to bear any fruits in us. When we have the right disposition towards the word of God; listening attentively with a desire to live by it and by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten our minds, it will yield a bountiful harvest in us.

PRAYER: Father, I ask that you sanctify my heart that it may always be ready to hear and accept every word of God with total joy. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 19 What role does Sacred Scripture play in the Church?

The Church draws her life and strength from Sacred Scripture.

Besides the presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist, there is nothing that the Church honors more reverently than Christ’s presence in Sacred Scripture. At Holy Mass we receive the Gospel standing, because in the human words we hear, God himself speaks to us.

HIDE A TREASURE: “…receive with meekness the implanted word which is able to save your souls” James 1:21 RSV-CE

Readings for Today: Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10; Psalm 71:1-6, 15, 16; Matthew 13:1-9.