Sixteenth Sunday of the Year (Year A)

Sixteenth Sunday of the Year July 23, 2023

Wisdom 12:13.16-19 Romans 8:26-27 Matthew 13:24-43

(image Courtesy: Google)

There is a story about a young man and an old preacher. The young man had lost his job and didn't know which way to turn. So, he went to see the old preacher. Pacing about the preacher's study, the young man ranted about his problem. Finally, he clenched his fist and shouted, "I've begged God to say something to help me. Tell me, Preacher, why doesn't God answer?" The old preacher, who sat across the room, spoke something in reply - something so hushed it was indistinguishable. The young man stepped across the room. "What did you say?" he asked. The preacher repeated himself, but again in a tone as soft as a whisper. So, the young man moved closer until he was leaning on the preacher's chair. "Sorry," he said. "I still didn't hear you." With their heads bent together, the old preacher spoke once more. "God sometimes whispers," he said, "so we will move closer to hear Him." This time the young man heard and he understood. We all want God's voice to thunder through the air with the answer to our problem. But God's is the still, small voice... the gentle whisper.

Have you also thought to change your situation overnight and ended up in frustration, disappointment and discouragement? Let us read the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds again and again today.

Jesus shares three parables with his disciples, illustrating profound spiritual truths through simple, everyday examples. The first parable of the wheat and the weeds reminds us that, while God sows good seeds in our hearts, the enemy, Satan, seeks to plant evil among us. It highlights the coexistence of good and evil in the world, a reality that we must confront daily. What is needed in our life? Faith, and nothing else. Jesus moves on to the second parable in such struggles of life. There we find hope. The mustard seed.

Like the tiny mustard seed that grows into a large tree, our faith, even if seemingly small, can blossom into something beautiful and influential in God's eyes. It teaches us not to underestimate the power of our faith and the impact we can have on the world when we surrender ourselves to God's will.

Lastly, in the third parable of the yeast, Jesus emphasizes the transformative power of the Kingdom of God. Just as yeast leavens the entire batch of dough, the presence of God's Kingdom in our lives should permeate every aspect, transforming us from within and shining His light to the world.

As we reflect on these parables, let us take the following lessons to heart:

Perseverance in Faith: Life is filled with challenges, and at times, we may question God's presence amidst suffering and evil. But just as the wheat grows among the weeds, let us remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that God is working even in the midst of difficulties. In times of trouble, let us turn to God in prayer, seeking His guidance and strength. In the face of adversity, let us remember that we are called to be patient and to trust in His plan, knowing that He works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

Cultivating Our Faith: Like the mustard seed, our faith requires nurturing and care. Through prayer, Scripture reading, and participation in the sacraments, we can grow our faith and draw closer to God. Let us invest in our relationship with Him and trust that He will use us to make a difference in the world.

Being Agents of Transformation: The parable of the yeast reminds us that we are called to be active participants in the spread of God's Kingdom. By living lives rooted in love, compassion, and righteousness, we can inspire positive change in the world around us.

When we face trials and temptations we need to be patient and have a deep abiding faith in Jesus. We can hear his whispers when we are close to him.   

Let us pray for the grace to embrace God's Word fully in our lives, so we may become beacons of hope, love, and transformation in our families, communities, and beyond. As we receive the Eucharist today, may we be nourished by Christ's body and blood, empowering us to live as authentic witnesses to His love and mercy.

May the Holy Spirit guide us, and may God's Word find fertile ground in our hearts, bearing abundant fruit for His glory. Amen.

Happy Sunday