Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time:

From Small Beginnings Comes Great Growth

BUT ONCE IT IS SOWN, IT SPRINGS UP

Dear Lord, as the seeds of change are sown within us, we pray they may spring up into justice that takes root in us all. Grant us the strength and resilience to embrace a transformative journey that brings love, compassion and understanding. Let your light shine upon us and give us the courage to believe in the radiant dawn of new beginnings.

Share a story when the small steps of a group grew into something much bigger.

In photo: People on top of a Military Tank protesting peacefully. Included in photo is Butz Aquino (holding the bullhorn), brother of the late Benigno Aquino Jr. photo credit: Howie Severino

In Manila in 1986 a peaceful, non-violent revolution took place that challenged the stereotype that revolutions are synonymous with violence. The Cardinal of Manila, Cardinal Sin went on the radio to ask people to support the military and the Defense Secretary in the revolution. This is part of what he said, “If any of you could be around at Camp Aguinaldo to show your solidarity and your support in this very crucial period when our two good friends have shown their idealism, I would be very happy…. Please come. Converged at EDSA [the main highway] with food for soldiers amid a political crisis.” The soldiers, despite orders to destabilize defectors, were moved by the citizens’ unwavering spirit, eventually accepted acts of kindness and love, marking a transformative moment. The spirit of solidarity, expressed solidarity, expressed through gestures of goodwill, softened hearts, and barriers crumbled. Despite these peaceful efforts, the tyrant Marcos remained in power, setting the stage for further developments. Joy San Andres, a Maryknoll Mission Formation Coordinator, was a teenager during these events. Together with her father they witnessed this transformation. Initially focused on school, Joy’s perspective shifted as the revolution unfolded. Joy and her father made their way to EDSA, where the jubilant celebration and the nation’s collective relief left a lasting impression on them both. Even now, this experience from childhood shapes Joy’s beliefs, allowing her to see the power of courage and compassion in fostering true change, both on a national scale and in personal principles.

Jesus said to the crowds: “This is how it is with the kingdom of God; it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land and would sleep and rise night and day and through it all the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how. Of its own accord the land yields fruit, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once, for the harvest has come.” He said, “To what shall we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it? It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth. But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.” With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it. Without parables he did not speak to them, but to his own disciples he explained everything in private. Mk 4:26-34

5. REFLECTION ON THE READINGS God’s kin-dom grows gradually, much like a mustard seed transforms into a large shrub. Similarly, a small community committed to serving others or advocating for justice is akin to planting a mustard seed. Through their tireless efforts, missionary disciples inspire others to join in the pursuit of justice, multiplying their impact. We acknowledge the significance of small acts of justice and mercy, recognizing that they can lead to profound transformation, enriching the world with compassion and peace. We are called to keep planting and nourishing the mustard seeds of justice so that God’s kin-dom of love becomes a visible reality for those who are excluded, oppressed and ignored.

Reflect on the importance of recognizing and appreciating the significance of small acts of justice and mercy. How is the Spirit inviting you and your faith community to take small steps for justice?

Big action starts with small steps. Research an organization that is making a big impact or go to the Maryknoll Global Concerns to find ways you can contribute to that movement. Make a commitment this week to plant at least one mustard seed for justice. Read more about Joy’s story in the Philippines and be inspired to do something special with your Father or Father figure this Fathers’ Day.

Gracious God, all creation manifests your love. Give us the courage and passion to do our part this week to join with you in planting mustard seeds of faith. Help us water those seeds with our work for justice, so that those who are excluded can find comfort in the shade of your love.