Our Great Journey
This week our theme is “The Kingdom of God” based on Mk 4:26-34 /Mc 4, 26-34
God has the power to turn small and seemingly insignificant things into works of great beauty, strength, and abundance. Jesus uses the image of the tiny mustard seed growing into a large plant that provides a haven for birds.
All pray the Sign of the Cross
Lord, I come into your presence with openness of heart. I know that you want to plant your seed in me and help it to bear fruit. I trust that you will pour out your mercy on me as I spend this time with you. I want to love you more and become a better instrument of your love. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Using the Bible, invite a family member to read the Gospel aloud.
Things to talk about:
- Do you have the experience of watching things in the natural world grow? How does that experience help you to know God and/or the Kingdom of God?
- How or where are you asked to plant the seeds of God’s Kingdom?
- Why did Jesus tell so many parables about seeds and growing? Watch this reflection video for an explanation.
Things to do:
CELEBRATE FATHER’S DAY
On this Father’s Day, Get to know your father, grandfather, Godfather or someone who is like a father to you better. Here are some questions you can ask to get to know more about him:
- Where did you grow up?
- Who was your best friend when you were in elementary school?
- Where did you go to school?
- What was your favorite sport growing up?
- What is your favorite thing to do with your family?
- How old were you when you were Confirmed? What do you remember about it?
- What is your least favorite food?
- Who is your favorite saint?
- When have you felt closest to God?
Closing Prayer
Strength of a Mountain
God took the strength of a mountain, the majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun, the calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature, the comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages, the power of the eagle’s flight,
The joy of a morning in spring, the faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity, the depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so, He called it … Dad
– Author Unknown
Thank you God, for all the fathers in our lives.
Name those who need our prayers. Close with the Sign of the Cross.
Catholic Insights
The vast majority of those who heard this Gospel reading in biblical times would have been farmers or gardeners or somehow involved in agriculture. They would immediately recognize the wonder and mystery of growing things. Farmers and gardeners today still get to witness the miracle of plant growth even though they understand the science behind the process better. Understanding botany is one thing, but sleeping and rising night and day to find the seeds sprouting can be awe-inspiring.
We don’t have to be farmers, though, to experience how the Kingdom of God is slowly revealed. Parents have this experience when they conceive a child and are stunned by the miracle of their new baby at birth. Teachers (hopefully!) witness virtues of patience, compassion, and maturity gradually taking root throughout 180 school days in a year. Doctors and therapists have the privilege of seeing patients healing in expected and unexpected ways. Relatives and friends experience the satisfaction of watching a loved one find new life and passion in a courageous move to a second career.
Groups working for justice witness bridge-building between communities
and individuals.
As with seeds and plants, all growth takes time. The Kingdom of God doesn’t appear instantaneously. Racism, sexism, economic inequalities, etc. still cause great pain and suffering. Because God respects human free will, He doesn’t intervene and fix everything for us in a split second. What God does do is surprise us by helping the smallest of seeds to grow and flourish in time. Our task is to plant those seeds and nurture them while we watch, wait, pray, and trust that God will grow them into plants of beauty and strength.
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