Tarsish Marak csc –
Readings: Ex 32:15-24,30-34; Mt 13:31-35
The first reading of the day speaks about the impatience of the people of Israel. Mosses, with much difficulty, brought the Israelites out of Egypt, however, people complained about him and turned to evil practices. While Moses and Joshua were away, they created for themselves a god to follow, formed in their own image and forged from their own earthly treasures. Sometimes in our life too we are tempted to fashion a god we can follow based upon what we value. Very often our impatience causes us to get involved in destructive activities of this sort.
In the gospel Jesus reminds that the full realization of the kingdom of God necessitates a hopeful patience. Using the parable of the mustard seed Jesus spoke about the growth of his kingdom and of Christianity. Christianity began in the soul of a single person. This movement was carried forth by a few persons who were very simple. But in the course of time, it grew into the greatest of bushes. This parable is a great encouragement to us in our lives and in our ministry. No matter how small we may begin, we must continue with the efforts. Then, our efforts and lives will grow. We will be rewarded for our faithful labour.
During his recovery from a severe battlefield injury, today’s Saint, Ignatius of Loyola read extensively on the lives of the saints. He asked a question, “If the saints could do this, why not I?”. This simple question, indeed, brought forth a spiritual giant from the person of Ignatius.