Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned. — Psalm 51:(see 3)

Mass Readings: 2 Samuel 11:1-4,5-10,13-17 / Mark 4:26-34

Dare to Dream Big

Jesus proclaimed, “The kingdom of God is at hand” (Mk 1:15) but — despite many signs and wonders — for the greater part of Jesus’ ministry, this kingdom boasted but a modest presence. This probably perplexed the disciples. The parables in today’s Gospel attempt an explanation. A man scatters seed, knowing and contributing little to the mysterious process of germination and growth that follows. A tiny mustard seed grows into a huge plant, offering shade even to “birds of the sky” — an expression denoting Gentile nations.

The disciples, although they neither see such a Kingdom taking concrete shape nor understand how this could happen, are called to believe the Kingdom is alive, anticipate its growth, and participate in this process by scattering seed and reaping the harvest.

Prayer: Mighty God, help me dare to dream big for Your Kingdom.