Can you imagine the farmer sowing the seed? He selects the soil that he thinks will have the proper nutrients. He chooses the season and time that the necessary rain might fall. He tills the soil and sows the seed in hope. Then he waits.
This waiting requires patience and trust. It is not a
passive or disinterested waiting. It is a time characterised by hope, collaboration, and gratitude. During this time, the day-to-day tasks that may seem insignificant in the greater picture continue. It is trusting that God will bring this seed to life in an unseen and mysterious way, producing “first the shoot, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear.” That which appeared to be dead and buried has come to new life! Does this ring a bell?
Then, the seed bears fruit and supplies the harvest for which it was planted. Think here of the Spirit showering graces and gifts on us.
Consider this in terms of Jesus' life. Jesus planted the seeds of God’s Kingdom in our hearts through the centuries and trusted the Father to bring about germination, growth, and fruit. Jesus believes that the kingdom will come about to give faith and courage to others and enable
them to come to see it.
Now, let us reflect on the seed planted in our hearts. We are created in God’s image and are born with the seed, which always draws us to God. There is an inner longing that we may not always be aware of. When we recognise it, receive the invitation, let go of self-centredness, and live a fruitful life of kindness, compassion and respect for all God’s creation, God will grow the seed of the kingdom within
us. Our example will also draw others to live lives focussed on a relationship with God.
Do I trust God?
Will I wait in faithful patience and trust for the Kingdom of God to grow in and transform my heart and the hearts of all?
What does living a life of love entail?
Who has been an example for me, and how can I be an example for
others?
Reflections by Kath Knowles
