Ez 17:22-24
2 Cor 5:6-10
Mk 4:26-34

Growth

The readings for this Sunday are filled with images of growth. The first reading tells of planting a shoot on a mountain, which then becomes a shelter for the birds. In the gospel, Jesus tells two parables, the first parable of a seed growing and the second parable of the mustard seed. Spiritual growth and growth of the Kingdom of God are the themes for these readings. 

Both of these parables involve seeds planted and growing. Anyone who has planted a garden knows that patience is needed. What happens to the seeds planted in the ground is mysterious but the gardener has faith that something is happening. Just as the seed is active underground, so too, God is always active in our lives, loving us and calling us to growth. 

In the second parable a very small seed is planted that will eventually grow into a large bush. The smallness of the seed is contrasted with the end result of a very large bush that is strong enough to provide refuge for birds. Just as the birds find refuge in the bush, we can be assured of being cared for by our loving God. Our God never stops providing for us.

We need to reflect on the Kingdom of God where the growth of God’s reign in our hearts becomes real. This happens when we do the will of God. The growth in our relationship with God may take time, but just like a plant or bush, we continue to grow over time. The farmer waters the plants and fertilizes the ground to help the plants grow. We need to take time for prayer and reflection to nourish the growth of our relationship with God.

The growth of the Kingdom of God is the work of the Holy Spirit within us. It requires our humble cooperation and a willingness to be open to God’s will in our lives. With faith in our loving, compassionate God, we will be able to deal with the hard things we might have to face and flourish with gratitude for all the good aspects of our lives.

It is our role as Christians to make the Reign of God real in the here and now, even as we look forward to its fullness in the future.

How does nature, planting, growing, harvesting, help you to understand your responsibility to continue to grow in your relationship with God?

In what ways can you nourish the growth of your spiritual life and your relationship with God?