11th Sunday in Ordinary Time (B) : Sunday 16th June 2024

“Each of us will get what he deserves for the things he did in the body, good or bad,” (2 Cor 5:10). St Paul’s insight is consistent with Prophet Ezekiel’s relating of the cedar tree out of which God will pick shoots that can be planted and grown, spreading its branches bearing fruit and shelter for the birds. Then Jesus spoke about seeds of grains that are planted and bear fruits, and tiny mustard seeds that become the biggest shrub for birds to shelter.

Such images of seeds, fruits and trees are meant to evoke our sense of awe and gratitude to God Who desires our participation in the completion of a divine project. The routine of endless tasks can be discouraging, but for those who see the larger picture of how a small role is a crucial part to complete a huge jigsaw puzzle, they will always find contentment.

God schools us through examples of nature. To stand tall in the midst of the dignified crowds is akin to seeing how the foliage of little arachis pintoi (pinto peanut), with its pea-shaped flower, stands straight towards heaven every morning. Therefore, no matter how lowly our roles may be, if they are completed with utter sincerity, then our fruits, as St Francis Assissi said, “When we leave this earth, we bring only what we have given, a full heart enriched by honest service.”

 Lord, may the grace of appreciating our work at hand increase day by day.