Daily Reflections ...

With the economy of salvation in mind, those harvest results are certainly good news. Even though the seeds of divine grace fall upon different types of terrain, clearly, good soil is the key ingredient for a plentiful harvest. So, there’s our call: to be good soil, full of nutrients that support and sustain shoots of virtue that take root and grow to enrich our human nature and blossom into noble conduct.

As a wise farmer fertilises his soil, the application of the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the cultivation of the virtues of justice, fortitude, prudence and temperance will provide the nourishment and strength for the choices we make in everyday life. By being joyful amidst difficult and painful circumstances, by doing our work well, by being inclusive and extending warmth to the marginalised and by our willingness to forgive, the shoots of our life will grow strong with love and bear fruit for the harvest.                        

The Divine Gardener himself has supplied the ongoing nourishment for our continued growth.  The Mass provides The Word and Bread of Life as a vital starting point, with the graces of a Sacramental life adding replenishment where needed. Jesus told this parable as He wants His followers to produce that abundant harvest. He suffered and died a painful death for the salvation of all.  He desires the seeds to be planted in good soil to offer help and support for those who fall by the wayside or on rocky ground. Luke 15:7 states, ‘there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than ninety-nine,’ who are already growing beautifully in the garden of life.

by Margaret O’Shea