Liturgy Column July 12, 2020 – The Parable of the Sower
Many of us may recall Fr. Ralph toiling away in the garden: watering, weeding, and planting seeds to create beautiful landscapes that reflect the beauty of God’s creation in the natural world. During this time of quietness and solitude, we too may be working in our own gardens finding peace in the loveliness of subtle blossoms or comfort in the sweetness of a freshly picked (or purchased) piece of fruit. In this Sunday’s gospel of the Parable of the Sower we hear Jesus announce, “But the seed sown on rich soil is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold.”
As Catholics, we are called to hear God’s living word and to understand it so that we can bear good fruit. We now have the rare opportunity to tend to and grow many things, but maybe none so more important as our understanding of the living Word of God. This living Word is found in our bible and speaks to us as we read the passages, reflect upon their meaning, and spend time understanding what God has to say to us. Below we list a few simple ways to pursue this personal growth. May your garden of the living Word thrive and bear much fruit!
Joy and Blessings,
The Liturgy Team – Ofelia & Deanna
Online resources
CtR Faith at Home webpage
If you’re reading this article, you’ve probably seen the many resources we have listed on our Fatih at Home webpage. Try out the many links and see if one of these speaks to you!
Watch a video reflection of the readings of the day. Reflections are free and assist in understanding how God’s word speaks to us in our modern-day.
App resources
Laudate App – comprehensive and free Catholic App available for your smartphone. This app has everything you need for daily reflection: prayers, New American Bible, Rosary, Liturgy of the Hours, Order of Mass, Daily Examination of Conscience, and much more.
Magnificat App –The App is free for subscribers to the printed version of the US edition (need registration for access). Otherwise, it is free from the day you install the App until the end of the month; then you can subscribe online or buy each month through the App Store. The App has everything the printed Magnificat contains along with digital resources such as hymns for the month, articles of the month, Lectio Divina, and other features.
Bible for Kids App – This is a simple and free App for elementary-aged kids that has narrated Bible passages and short activities that coincide with each reading.