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Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
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Isaiah 55:10-11
Psalm 64
Romans 8: 18-23
Matthew 13:1-23
The first reading is taken from the "Book of Comfort" of Second Isaiah in which he prepares the people of Israel for their return to Jerusalem after the humiliating exile in Babylon. Using the image of water which nourishes the earth and brings forth fruit, he urges the people to hear the word of God and to allow it to bear fruit in their life. For Isaiah the word is linked with God's spirit working within human history bringing about salvation. The same thought is found in the psalm - God provides the rain to water the earth, making it grow and bear fruit.
The Gospel reading is the well-known parable of the sower. Like other Jewish teachers of his day, Jesus recognised the power of story to convey a message. The listener is invited to think reflectively on the human application of the story and indeed if the parable is to have an effect, the audience must participate. The different soils represent the different human receptions of the word or the kingdom of God. Despite some failures the sower's work ultimately succeeds as the fruits of the soil demonstrate.
Both readings today give hope and encouragement to those who are willing to hear God's word. This week you are invited to read the word and let it sink into your heart. Ask yourself if you are willing to let his word take root in your life. Are you prepared to grow so that you are living a deeper, more authentic life? What fruit are you called to bear to bring about the kingdom of God?