Reflection for the 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time … June 16th, 2024

by Marylou Garrett, ND Associate

“To what shall we compare the kingdom of God? It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, it is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth. But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants and puts forth large branches, so that birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.”

In my 34 years teaching at three different high schools, I was blessed to be surrounded by colleagues who wove faith into their lesson plans and lives. They scattered seeds on basketball courts and school stages; during Community Service with advisees and at Grandparents’ Day Masses.

My students loved their parents, but they adored their grandparents, who adored them! Both generations sowed seeds of faith and commitment in these students’ lives with their presence, prayers and example. Along with our clergy, religious sisters, teachers and beloved aunts and uncles, they inspire young people to live faith filled lives of service no matter what vocation they’re called to. One scattered seed of faith in Christ can bring abundant life, and consolation to many, when it is sown deeply in our heart.

What seeds of faith have you scattered in your life? How is Christ calling you now to sow seeds so God’s Kingdom can flourish and spread among us today?