Saint John Bosco, Priest 

Hebrews 10:32-39
Psalm 36(37):3-6,23-24,39-40
Mark 4:26-34

FAITH GROWS SILENTLY AND IN A HUMBLE WAY

In today’s gospel passage, Jesus employs the metaphor of the mustard seed to illustrate the dynamics of faith development. The mustard seed, though minuscule in size, possesses the intrinsic potential to transform into a substantial mustard tree, providing refuge for various avian species. This analog exemplifies how faith expands—gradually, patiently, and in a manner that often goes unnoticed. The process of growth is inherently miraculous. It underscores the continual progression that transpires regardless of the farmer’s awareness; whether conscious or unconscious, the seed germinates and flourishes.

Many of life’s significant transformations require a substantial investment of time. An interaction or a few spoken words can serve as a catalyst, effectively “planting a seed” within our cognitive and spiritual landscapes. Seeds of faith can germinate across diverse areas of our lives, often leading to unexpected manifestations of the kingdom.

What may be even more remarkable is our role as sowers of these seeds. The benign actions or words we offer can exert a profound impact on others. A mere smile, seemingly trivial, can be a beacon of hope for someone experiencing distress, while a frown could alter the trajectory of their day.

The divine seeds of empathy, compassion, peace, hope, and love are abundantly accessible and prepared for dissemination. They germinate within us, and we are tasked with the responsibility of sowing these virtues in others. Although the resultant transformations may not be instantaneous, the expansive Garden of the Lord is perpetually thriving, adorned with fragrant blooms and abundant harvests.

Fr Joseph Osho