The Lord gave them bread from heaven. — Psalm 78:24

Mass Readings: Exodus 16:1-5,9-15 / Matthew 13:1-9

Preparing the Garden

Today’s Gospel gives us another story familiar to gardeners. If seeds are planted on soil which has not been prepared, which is not weed-free and deep, they don’t thrive. I remember some of my children doing a science project which involved sprouting seeds on a wet paper towel. They were disappointed that their seeds wouldn’t produce the beautiful flowers on the seed packet and we had to explain to them that seeds need the nourishment of soil.

In the Gospel we’re reminded that seeds need rich soil in order to produce good fruit. And we need to prepare ourselves so that the words of the Lord can take root and produce good fruit in us. The Eucharist and prayer help make us ready to grow our faith and to produce beautiful work.

Prayer: Lord, help us prepare to grow our faith and to produce something beautiful for You.