Is 55:10-11; Ps 64(65); Rom 8:18-23; Mt 13:1-23
Second Isaiah, writing around 550 BC, concludes his “Book of Comfort” to the Jewish exiles in Babylon with an invitation to a joyful banquet. After renewing His covenant of peace, God has reminded Israel that “my thoughts are not your thoughts”: God’s words come down gently to bring forth divine fruits, like the rain which enables the earth to yield its fruits.
The Psalm give God praise and thanks for his power over all the earth and the rains which produce abundant crops.
Paul continues this theme of God’s plan slowly moving towards its climax: creation is unable to attain its purpose without help, and it was made this way by God. Paul gives us a brilliantly clear vision of God’s plan: with the coming of Christ creation is now groaning in the birth pangs of being set free.
It is worth listening carefully to Matthew’s explanation of the parable of the sower. And especially to Jesus’ very difficult statements that he talks to the crowds in parables because “they listen without hearing or understanding”. He says “They have shut their eyes, for fear they should see, … and be converted”. The coming of Jesus brings both judgement and mercy. But some will not receive God’s words, unless their minds are open and cease making their own image of God.
(Is 55:10-11; Ps 64(65); Rom 8:18-23; Mt 13:1-23)
