The Deeper Meaning- 07/12/2020 Gospel Reflection

Today’s Gospel reading, Matthew 1:1-23, is the first of 3 consecutive Sunday gospels which highlight the parables of Jesus, and include some of Jesus’ most familiar words.
 
Did you ever wonder why Jesus spoke in parables?  If you have, you’re not alone!  Even the disciples wondered. And in today’s gospel passage, they ask Jesus, “Why do you speak to them in parables?”
 
What is Jesus’ response? 
 
“He said to them in reply, ‘Because knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been granted to you, but to them it has not been granted.’”   And, “they look but do not see and hear but do not listen or understand.”  (Matthew 13:13)
 
Then Jesus went on to describe the different types of ‘listeners’ to whom he ‘sows the Word’ generously and super-abundantly, tossing the seed of the Word to everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re located. 
 
What do we learn from Jesus’ parable and his explanation today?
 
Knowledge of the kingdom of heaven is a mystery, and Jesus came to speak words that both Reveal those mysteries, and Conceal those mysteries.
 
In order to understand the mysteries that Jesus reveals, we must make a commitment. He doesn’t say it straight out. He veils His explanation in parables.  We have to decide if we’re willing to make a commitment to spend time listening with our heart.
 
If we’re willing to make that commitment, Jesus will reveal to us what we need to know about Him, and about the kingdom of heaven.
If we’re not willing to commit, those ‘secrets’ will be concealed.
 
“Whoever has ears ought to hear!”  (Matthew 13:9)
 
Are we listening?
 
For more reflections, check out the blog on the parish website at www.jp2parish.org/blog
 
In The Peace of Christ….
Carol Mullins