Embrace It

Embrace It

September 22, 2012

Saturday of the Twenty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Just as we have borne the image of the earthly one, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly one. 1 Corinthians 15:49

But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance. Luke 8:15

Piety

Father, take from me all the obstacles to grace that keep me from you.  Brother Jesus, give me the directions that lead me to the path to walk with you.  Set me free, Holy Spirit, from all that keeps me from piety, study and love-in-action. 

Study

Growth implies change.  Today's parable and the letter from St. Paul both address how we will grow from one stage to another.  However, such growth also is not without its obstacles to overcome.

Jesus identified three types of obstacles we might face as our seeds of faith attempt to grow.  First, we might hear the Word but have other messages drown out that word.  Second, we might face times of trial.  How we react in times of crisis also tests the strength of our faith and how we are either growing toward the Lord or walking away.  Third, there are personal pleasure which might become obstacles to a life of piety, study and action.  These can distract us from the path we are invited to walk.

At times, we all can identify with one or more of these obstacles in our lives.  Yet, Jesus also gives us the key to growth.  Growth starts with hearing the message.  Then, the message must take root in a generous and good heart.  And not matter what the obstacle, it must result in us putting love into action -- persevering no matter what the obstacle. 

Action

Put some love into action this weekend.  Can you do a few hours of volunteer work for someone in need? Visit a friend in a hospital or nursing home.  Donate a pint of blood for someone who needs it for surgery.  Take part in a charity event.  Where does your generous and good heart lead you today?