THE KINGDOM OF GOD IN OUR HEARTS - 10/25/22 (Tuesday of 30th Week In Ordinary Time)

Luke 13:18–19

He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.”

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102522.cfm

Blessed Tuesday! In today's gospel reading, our Lord Jesus gives a parable about the Kingdom of God. What is this Kingdom like? Our Lord compares it to a mustard seed which is sowed in the garden and becomes a tree. The garden is a representation of our hearts and our souls. It's true that we believe in heaven, but we should remember that heaven is where God is. And, God is not in place far from us. The truth is that God dwells within our hearts. He dwells within us because He loves us. Our Lord places in our hearts the inspirations from Him for us to be more aware of God's plan and will in our lives. He is pouring His mercy and graces in us so that we can have the strength to do His will. Sometimes, we may fall to sins and become more attached to worldly things and ambitions. We may forget that the purpose of our lives is to love God and glorify Him. One reason why this happens is maybe, we are not aware that the King of the Universe chooses to dwell within us. 

This is why when we pray, we should not just say words. Rather, it's important for us to pray with intention and understanding that the God whom we are speaking to is listening to us because He is within us. In the analogy, a mustard seed can only bear fruit and be a tree if it's in a healthy garden. In the same way, our hearts should be purified from anything that is not pleasing to God. If we see our sins, let's reflect in our prayers on how we can avoid them in the future. When we recognize that we are always spending our money on expensive things instead of giving some to the poor, then it's an opportunity to be detached more from wealth and to be give more to others. When our faith is bearing fruit in our lives, many people will see the presence of God's Kingdom in us. And, they will be inspired to do good as well and to be more united to our Lord. No matter what sufferings we experience, let's have confidence that God is with us and within us. We are united with Him. The light of God's mercy will transform us and free us from the darkness of sins. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

 

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/