| Gospel | Mark 4:26-34 |
Jesus said to the crowds: ‘This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man throws seed on the land. Night and day, while he sleeps, when he is awake, the seed is sprouting and growing; how, he does not know. Of its own accord the land produces first the shoot, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. And when the crop is ready, he loses no time: he starts to reap because the harvest has come.’
He also said, ‘What can we say the kingdom of God is like? What parable can we find for it? It is like a mustard seed which at the time of its sowing in the soil is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet once it is sown it grows into the biggest shrub of them all and puts out big branches so that the birds of the air can shelter in its shade.’
Using many parables like these, he spoke the word to them, so far as they were capable of understanding it. He would not speak to them except in parables, but he explained everything to his disciples when they were alone.
The Vigil Mass intention is for Theresa King’s Intentions
The Mass intention is for Angela Ward RIP (HC)
Jim & Janice B’s Intentions (OL)
Reflection
Simple things we say or do can have a big influence. One person can affect many; even without knowing it. The kingdom of God grows of its own impetus in the world and nobody can stop it, like good seed growing underground. God is the God of here, there and everywhere. Seeds may sprout anywhere in the field and the kingdom can find its way into the lives of individuals and communities in ways that may be surprising. The mustard seed becomes a tree for all; the kingdom of God is for every man, woman and child. Have you ever brought something of the kingdom of God – of love and peace, prayer and faith, justice and hope – when you didn’t recognize it? Let that fill your mind and heart with gratitude as you pray.
God Bless you all Deacon Martyn
