I should start by saying that this is not from today's reading, just something I've been sort of mulling over. We're getting into talking about some parables in my theology 9 class.
One that we're focusing on is the Parable of the Sower. It follows the Sower, or a farmer who seems to be traveling with seeds, going to plant them.
There are four "options" for how the seeds grow.
The first falls on the path, completely in the wrong spot. Seeds on a path, no hope. Before they are trampled by a passerby, they are eaten by birds.
The second bunch falls on rocky ground. The seedlings sprung up immediately, but when the sun shown bright they were scorched for lack of roots.
The third falls on soil, but grows among thorns. When the seedlings here grow up, they are strangled by the thorns and die.
Finally, some seed falls on rich soil and grows 30, 60, 100 fold. Accomplished.
Jesus then discusses the Parables with those listening, explains that they are not literal stories but more allegorical, or metaphorical. They have a deeper meaning, and those with "ears to hear" will understand. As a sort of heads up, he explains this particular parable to the crowd.
He says that the seeds and their growth are kind of like people and their lives.
The first seeds that fall on the path, are like those that hear the word of God without understanding it at all. It has no effect, and it is stolen away by evil before it ever reaches their heart. To me this is like those that are not open to the word of God; it never had a chance.
The second bunch on the rocky path at least is open. They hear the word of God and receive it with joy. However, when trial or tribulation comes (the scorching sun), they wither for lack of roots. Their faith was not founded, it was just an emotion. I think of this as the people who come to a church, love what they hear, but then walk out and nothing is different. Living the word of God is easier said then done.
The third group that is choked by thorns is like those that are overcome by the world. They try to live the faith, but the world gets the best of them. Be it a pursuit of money, fame, or fortune - something steals their joy. They gave it a shot, but could not withstand.
The final seedlings, grown in rich soil are the success stories. Their lives bear fruit. I think what is worth mentioning here is that they were planted in rich soil. They had the advantage from the start. Be it self-made rich soil, or something done for them - they were ready. I think of the advantage of growing up in a faithful family, having a welcoming church community, or having the blessing of a Catholic education. You are set up for success, yes - but you still have to work for it. Blessed are those have all this and take advantage of it.
The group that hits home with me right now is the seed sown on rocky path, that withers for lack of roots. This is what has been weighing heavily on my heart as of late. Relating to Stoughton Lifeteen, and sort of reflecting on what we need to do better (among other things) ...I don't think teens are understand the value and importance of the mass. Something is happening with our retention ability. They are like seedlings, who shoot up, but then wither. Our kids come to things like LIFT, or Steubenville, or even an occasional mass or life night - but when in the real world, they wither for lack of roots. A vulgar facebook status, the knowledge of another instance of teenage drinking, a shallow relationship that led to sex, or even a Sunday spent with no thought of attending mass - something is not clicking.
The word of God sounds good, but it doesn't stick.
To me, the mass is the key to all of this. To be honest, I don't care if we see a kid at countless life nights, or they attend retreats, as long as I know they are going to mass. But that simply isn't happening. Some kids we consider "regulars" are not even "regular" mass attendees. Something has to give, or I fear our program withers for lack of roots. We need to bring it back to the basics, the sacraments - and a love of teens that gets them there. I think my challenge to teens in the future who are struggling with their faith will be to just attend mass. Give God an hour a week, and see where he takes it. Sure worked for me.
To be continued...
No comments:
Post a Comment