The Fate of the Seeds and the Weeds

Readings: Jeremiah 14:17-22, Ps. 79:8-9,11,13, Matthew 13:36-43

“Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age.” (Matthew 13:40)

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus explains the parable of wheat and weeds. Unlike the Parable of the Sower, this parable is particularly addressed to Christians. Jesus is not talking about non-Christians or anyone outside the territory of God’s kingdom. He wants us to realise that we are either wheat or weeds.

- On the day of our baptism, God admitted us into his kingdom, and we now answered the name Christian. However, as time went on, Satan succeeded in sowing very bad seeds into some of us, and instead of bearing fruits, we became weeds (useless plants) growing within God’s kingdom. But remember, even weeds have the potential to transform into wheat with God’s mercy and our sincere efforts.

- Some Christians are a real disgrace to the body of Christ. Not only do they fail to bear the right fruits, but they also prevent other plants from growing normally. Jeremiah would say: “God’s people are struck down with a crushing blow, with a very grievous wound. If I go out into the field, look those killed by the sword! And if I enter the city, look those sick with famine! For both prophet and priest ply their trade throughout the land and have no knowledge.” (Jeremiah 14:17-18). These are the weeds that Jesus is talking about, which will be gathered and thrown into the furnace of fire at the end of time.

- The question we must ask ourselves today is, “Am I a weed in God’s kingdom?” Let us join Jeremiah in today’s first reading to ask for God’s mercy, the powerful force that can transform us from weeds to good seeds so that we may no longer be weeds but good seeds.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help us to live good lives, lives that bear the fruits of your kingdom. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Tuesday of week 17 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Jeremiah 14:17-22, Ps. 79:8-9,11,13, Matthew 13:36-43).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu