036 11th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Readings

Cycle B 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Ezekiel 17: 22-24; Psalm 92; 2 Corinthians 5:6-10; Mark 4:26-34

Homily Theme

Spiritual Growth

The Scripture Readings this Sunday are very scattered like the seeds Jesus mentions in the Gospel. In the First Reading, Ezekiel quotes God who speaks of Plants and trees and their growth. In the Psalm we will either, say or sing, about the growth of seeds and plants again. St. Paul reminds us in the Second Reading we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, so that each may receive recompense according to what we did in the body, whether good or evil. In the Gospel and the preceding alleluia verse, there is again more about seeds. I am sure farmers will really relate.

What about those of us who are not so familiar with farming? It is all about Growth, not of trees and plants but human souls. God planted his life in each of us at Baptism and the Holy Spirit when we were confirmed. The message this Sunday is that God will judge the spiritual growth of each one us. Farmers would not be pleased if their planted crops died and God is not happy when Christian Souls are not baring fruit either.

Each of us should make a thorough examination of our conscience this Sunday. What is my daily prayer life? When was the last time I confessed any serious sins? Am I presently in a State of Grace? Millions of Christians have ceased to pray or practice their faith. There has been a decline in Christian values in Europe and the West.

Who would have ever thought that Catholic Ireland would have voted for same sex marriage in defiance of the bishops? Their Seminaries are close to empty with just few priests being ordained. There is little growth there if any. I read that there is a 1223 percent increase of Catholics inn Africa whereas in Europe a 60 to 70 percent decline in numbers. That’s Growth!

What about the USA? The Churches were once packed here and a parish had several priests. Now priests have several parishes to look after. Each of us has to face a final judgement. Where will we spend eternity? Think about it. Is there spiritual growth in you and your family or Parish?

Jesus will be watching