What Does This Mean?
Homily for St Joseph’s Children’s Mass
Today Jesus tells us the parable of the sower. He scatters seeds on rocks, on hard ground, in the weeds, and some on good soil. We know that seed that is put in good soil will grow best. I think the disciples knew that seed put in good soil will grow best, too. But they are beginning to listen to Jesus and know that sometimes in His stories there is more to learn. So, they ask Him, “What does this mean?” And Jesus tells us more about the story. And Jesus’ explanation helps us to understand what the meaning of the story is about.
Now you and I know we would want to plant seed in good soil. That is why we pray, we help our neighbor, and we come to Mass. All these things prepare our hearts to be the good soil. But Jesus wants us to do even more, to try harder. Jesus wants us to ask the same question, “What does this mean?”
In school, we learn how to read and do math and use computers. Our teachers are a blessing, and they guide us to learning and understanding. But it is up to us to ask the question, “What does this mean?” We want to learn why should we know this. Why this is important in my life. With what I am learning, does it help me to grow closer to Jesus? Am I learning what God wants me to know so that I can serve Him?
Even with good soil we need to add fertilizer and water for plants to grow. That is our job. By studying and learning and asking why we learn how to our job better. Next week is Catholic Schools Week. It is a special week because we get to celebrate who we are. People loving and serving God.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen