Mark 4:1-20

Reflection

Jesus tells the crowds a parable about a sower who sowed seed, all of which fell on different pieces of ground – some shallow, some rocky, some thorny. Only the seed that fell on rich soil survived. His disciples ask what the parable means, and Jesus explains that the different types of soil represent different people who hear Jesus’ word, yet none of it sticks except for those who have rich soil.

Which person are you? Do Jesus’ words fall on thorny soil because you’re preoccupied with worldly things, or do they fall on rocky soil because when persecution comes, you turn away from your faith? Hopefully you are the rich soil, eager to hear Jesus’ words and truly listen to them. We can all pray for this grace – to be able to apply Christ’s teachings to our everyday life and bear fruit.

Reflect on how you interact with Jesus’ words. Are they deeply rooted in yourself or more shallow? Ask the Lord to help you to better receive his teaching and love so that you can grow deep roots of faith in him.

Saint of the Day

Sts. Sarbelius & Barbea: died AD 101

These two saints were brother and sister who converted to Christianity. Persecuted because of their faith, they were both arrested during the time of Emperor Trajan, first tortured with hot irons before being killed. St. Sarbelius and St. Barbea, pray for us!