Daily Gospel Reflection for July 23, 2015

Today's Gospel: Matthew 13:10-17

Optional Memorial of Saint Bridget, Religious

When we think about the parables Jesus used, it may be hard for us to relate to some of them. However, the parables were used to help the people of Jesus’ day understand His teachings. When Jesus spoke to the crowds, he knew that the best way for them to understand his teachings is to compare them to situations they deal with on a daily basis. This is similar to a teacher using examples to help a child better understand a lesson. When people can relate to something, or they can attach meaning to it, they will learn the concept better and remember it.

These parables still teach God’s people today. Although we may not fully relate to everything in the parables, we still learn the message that God is sending us. Each time we hear one of the parables, we are learning a little bit more about the Kingdom of God.

Ponder:

Which of Jesus’ parables means the most to me? Which one can I best relate to? What is God trying to teach me with this parable?

Pray:

Dear Jesus, thank you for your mercy in teaching to all of your people on all their different levels of understanding. Open my heart so that I may hear and share the message you are sending.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Jennifer Gladen