We encourage you to reflect on Tuesday’s readings at this link:Click here.
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are: First Reading: Romans 8:18-25 Responsorial: Psalm 126:1-6 Gospel: Luke 13:18-21
Our reflection on Tuesday’s readings: “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us.” Romans 8:18
Being a Middle School Religion Teacher, my mantra over the years has been, “Remember, you are just planting seeds.” With all of the joys that come with being a teacher, there are also times of frustration. There are times of fruitfulness and times of waiting for the fruit to grow. Patience and endurance are the lessons for me. And to remember that these children are the hope that I do not see. Because often times we don’t see the fruits of our labor.
A couple of years ago, I was able to gather and reconnect with some friends who, some twenty years ago were just teenagers in a parish youth group for whom I was the Youth Minister. It probably was one of the most rewarding experiences of all my ministerial years. Twenty years ago I was planting seeds. And although I was just one of the farmers in these teenagers’ lives, it was rewarding to see the fruits of these now 30-somethings. It brought me great joy.
I know being a teacher of Middle-Schoolers is hardly suffering. There are worse situations in our world where the suffering is far greater. I am sure we can all name them and we experience them as well. But creation is groaning. The farmers are planting. Hope is emerging.
