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With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able
to understand it. Without parables he did not speak to them, but to
his own disciples he explained everything in private. Mark
4:33–34
Today’s Gospel begins with two parables about the Kingdom of God,
using the familiar image of seeds. Both of these parables point to
the Kingdom of God as something that grows mysteriously and
abundantly, often beyond human understanding or control.
The first parable points to the mysterious growth of the seed that
the sower scatters on his fields: “and would sleep and rise night
and day and the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how” (Mark
4:27). This emphasizes the hidden and gradual work of God’s grace.
Like the seed that grows in the soil without the sower fully
comprehending how, the Kingdom of God grows quietly and powerfully,
primarily through divine initiative.
The second parable is about the mustard seed, the smallest of
seeds, which, when planted, “springs up and becomes the largest of
plants and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky
can dwell in its shade” (Mark 4:32). This parable reveals the
transformative power of the Kingdom, which begins from the humblest
beginnings but grows into something expansive and life-giving. God
often works through what appears insignificant to accomplish great
things.
Though these parables are important and provide us with spiritual
nourishment through prayerful reflection, what the Gospel writer
says next, as is quoted above, is just as important. Parables were
meant to draw the listener into divine mysteries. We have to ponder
the message prayerfully and allow the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s
Word to us. Because Jesus spoke only in parables to the crowds, we
must see ourselves among their number. However, we must also work
to be counted among Jesus’ own disciples: “to his own disciples he
explained everything in private.”
God’s Word is alive. The Scriptures are not only like an ancient
philosophy book that requires study and interpretation, which
certainly play a proper role in understanding the Word of God.
However, because God’s Word is a Living Word, it is more than an
intellectual exercise. When we read it or hear it proclaimed, God
is present. It is God Himself Who speaks to minds and hearts that
are open and attentive. When we approach God’s Word in this way,
God will “explain everything in private.”
“Private,” in this case, means “personal.” Engaging God’s Word
draws us into a personal conversation with Him. It enables God to
speak to us directly, revealing Himself in His Word, filling us
with the spiritual gifts of Wisdom, Knowledge, Understanding, and
Counsel. These Gifts of the Spirit are essential to our spiritual
growth and are the primary way to grow in faith, hope, and
charity.
Do you see the Word of God as the Living Word, inviting you into a
personal dialogue with God? Consider the depth of the invitation
extended to you in this Gospel passage. Jesus desires to speak to
you “in private,” unveiling the mysteries of His Kingdom in a way
that is deeply personal and uniquely suited to your personal
journey.
Reflect today on how you approach the Word of God in your daily
life. Take time to prayerfully ponder the parables and their
meaning in your life. Consider setting aside a specific moment each
day to read and meditate on a short passage from Scripture. Allow
God to sow the seed of His Word in your heart and, like the farmer,
marvel in wonder and awe as the Kingdom takes root and grows in
your life. Trust that even the smallest acts of faith, like the
mustard seed, can grow into something extraordinary when authentic
and nurtured by God’s grace. Open your heart to receive the gifts
of the Holy Spirit, asking for Wisdom to discern God’s voice,
Knowledge to understand His will, Understanding to grasp the depths
of His truth, and Counsel to act upon His Word.
My Lord and intimate God, You desire to speak to me day and
night, revealing the mysteries of Your Kingdom and communicating to
me Your Living Word. Open my mind and heart to all You wish to
reveal, so that, through Your Word, Your Kingdom may take root in
my heart and bear abundant fruit. Jesus, I trust in You.
Image: See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia
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