Daily Gospel Reflection for January 28, 2026

We want to be good soil. We want the Word to grow in us and bear much fruit. The reality is that sometimes we are the ground along the path, sometimes the rocky ground, and even sometimes we are surrounded by thorns. How do we become and remain good soil?

 

We can’t do it on our own. We need to rely on Jesus’ help and teaching because, let’s face it, the thorns are everywhere, the soil is often rocky, and we are sinful humans.

 

The good news is that Jesus knows this. After all, He created each one of us intentionally just as we are. He knows our judgmental tendencies (unfortunately, gossip is satisfying), our desires for worldly things and approval (it’s nice to have nice stuff), and our lack of will power as we slip back into sin. Through it all, we continue to turn back toward Him, and He continues to love us. How amazing! Every time we turn away and then turn back, we find Him still there loving us. We can cultivate good soil by relying on Him and taking advantage of the graces our Catholic faith offers through confession and the Eucharist. Think of it - we can go to Mass every single day and receive Our Lord. We can get a daily dose of whatever virtue we are lacking, and when we mess up, go to Him and get cleaned up.

 

It is hubris to think we need to do it by ourselves. God did not make us like that. He created us to rely on Him and every time we go to Jesus for assistance, He is there. I have to believe it delights Him. He wants us to grow in faith, hope, and love, thus fertilizing our soil and helping His Word bear fruit.