16th Week in Ordinary Time : Wednesday 23rd July 2025

It is clear for us that in the Parable of the Sower, the seed represents the Word of God, with Christ as the sower. The soil represents our hearts – thus, just as the seed falls into the soil and begins to sprout, the Word of God sown within our heart may be nurtured and anchor itself as we leave room for it to guide and charm us. However, various responses are produced to its presence; this is determined by the condition of our heart and in varying circumstances. Some may hear the message but don’t understand it, some receive it with enthusiasm but lack deep roots, some are choked by the demands and worries of the world, and some embrace it fully that results in bearing lasting fruit.

Today, is my disposition having the right “soil” – one that gives a docile space for a strong foundation, enabling me to engage the Word of God with others in the world? The Parable of the Sower is an open invitation to hope. Guided by the Word of God, we respond to the challenges in new ways to draw the good in every person living with God. Pope Francis, in preaching this text in 2017, said, “Jesus invites us today to look inward; to give thanks for our good ground and to work on the ground not yet good.”

Lord, enlighten me with Your Word as a compass of hope for me to be a channel of Your kindly attention to those in despair.