In this week's reading from St. Matthew's Gospel, we hear two parables about the Kingdom of Heaven [cf. Mt 13:44-52]. Unfortunately, we are not hearing what led up to Jesus sharing these two parables. To understand the point Jesus was making, we need to consider the context in which Jesus was speaking.

This episode began in the town of Magdala. It was late afternoon and Jesus asked any who would follow Him to sail across the Sea of Galilee to the eastern shore [cf. Mt 8:18, Mk 4:35, Lk 8:22].

Last Sunday in our readings, we heard the message that the word of God is a seed that is sown in us. With God's help, we are to nurture and nourish this seed so that it produces fruit and fruit that will last. This Sunday's Gospel continues this theme and message.

For us today who live in cities, housing estates, and tower blocks, it can be difficult to understand and appreciate the farming language that Jesus uses when he speaks.

Sometimes I feel capable of absorbing almost anything except God's Word. My mind soaks up song lyrics, sports trivia, and endless online content. But what was the reading at Mass this morning? I struggle to recall. That realization discourages me, and it leads to an uncomfortable question. What is my heart really for? Is it shaped for constant information and distraction, or is it truly designed for God? Am I capable of deeply receiving His Word?

Dear Parishioners of Blessed Sacrament and Visitors,

Jesus speaks of a yoke and a burden. The "yoke" refers to part of the harness used to pull a cart, plow, or mill beam. This instrument was how an animal's master kept them under control and guided them in useful work. Over time, the term "yoke" came to be used metaphorically for submission, typically to a teacher. However, Jesus' use of the metaphor here carries a deeper meaning.

In our First Reading this week, from the 2nd Book of Kings, [2 Kgs 4:8-17] we hear the story of Elisha, the prophet, and the woman in the town of Shunem. On first hearing, it sounds like a nice story of an old woman who is rewarded for her generosity. But there is more to the Old Testament than nice stories, there are profound lessons as well.

The Book of Kings is from the portion of the Old Testament that is known as the Deuteronomistic Writings. The word, Deuteronomy, means "the second telling."

The apostles' fear

OUR LORD is preparing his disciples for their first apostolic mission. The Twelve are about to leave for the neighboring towns to announce the coming of the Kingdom of God. But before they depart, they hear words from Jesus that, at first glance, seem disconcerting. He foretells that sooner or later they will suffer hatred, persecution, and even death.

Remembering the joy of encountering God

WHEN the Israelites camped in front of Mount Sinai, Moses began ascending the mountain to speak with God. The Lord, who had witnessed the doubts and difficulties Israel faced after fleeing Egypt, reaffirmed the covenant He had established with his people: "If you will obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my own possession among all peoples; for all the earth is mine, and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

Esteemed parishioners of Blessed Sacrament and visitors,

Today is the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, historically referred to by its Latin name, Corpus Christi. This solemnity celebrates the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist-Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. As a community named after this sacred sacrament, this day holds special significance for us.