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15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Word of Explanation :
Jesus, as rabbi, Master, uses the parables to teach in a privileged way. In Greek, the word parabole is made up from a preposition : next to and a substantive : jet (stone). Parabole can mean two boats drawing near to each other, the meeting of planets or a parallel between two situations. A parable is based on bringing things together, a comparison : a little story of fiction is compared to something real, which provided the occasion for the story. A parable is a discourse that is not understood if the hearer does not penetrate beyond the first level of reality. It starts off with an experience of daily life, but the story suggests something beyond that little reality. Parables, in Jesus’ teaching, are provocative. They point to something happening, coming to pass. In face of this happening, the interlocutor has to take a stand, reflect on the reality that the story is alluding to.
Meditation :
Between the parable of the Sower and its interpretation a declaration concerning the mysteries of the Kingdom is inserted. They are revealed only to the disciples. Jesus speaks in parables so that those who see do not see and understand without understanding. A parable takes a detour in teaching a truth to a deaf and dumb crowd. The intimate word, if given directly, risks being heard from the exterior and being distorted. Confidence is necessary for that which is intimate. This is why Jesus speaks in a parable about the mysterious seed which is given in abundance. Intimate truths concerning God are communicated but remain secret until they are revealed in the intimacy of confidence. They are audible for those who trust in the one who speaks in his Father’s name, but remain inaccessible for those who attempt to grasp the meaning without faith.
The accent is placed on the mysterious collaboration between the Gospel, the earth, and the auditor’s reaction. In short, attention is called to the fruit produced according to the quality of the earth- especially to the good earth and the fruit produced by it. . The interpretation of the parable offers a clear warning about understanding the Word. Auditors are invited to resist the snares of the demon, to persevere in the midst of difficulties, persecutions and trials, to take care that wealth and pleasure not prove an obstacle to obeying the Word. We need to listen and give full consent, free of obstacles. It is an invitation to take a personal decision. But the Good News is that the Word is always fruitful if we don’t place any obstacle.
Lord, since the word that comes from your mouth does not return without bearing fruit, grant us the grace of a an open and willing heart, capable of receiving the word that you give in such gracious abundance
Remonter