To the Ends of the Earth: Character – Week 6, Day 1 - The Grain Must Die to Produce Fruit
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“And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be of anxious mind. For all the nations of the world seek these things; and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things shall be yours as well.
“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
Luke 12:29-32
When Jesus gathered the crowds around him, he saw their poverty of spirit and their lack of hope. Like a gentle parent, he spoke tenderly to their needs. The people came seeking because they had been broken by life and had nowhere else to turn. Some lacked material possessions; some were physically or mentally ill; others hungered for peace. They worried about the uncertainty of tomorrow. Powerless, with shattered spirits, they were drawn to the gentle teacher whose very words filled them in ways nothing else could. Jesus lifted their burdens and made them light.
It is the same for us, whether we live below the poverty line or walk in loneliness within our mansions. All of us are frail, hungry, and helpless. Yet this passage shows us clearly that our frailty is not a reason to worry. In fact, it tells us not to worry, not to seek to control tomorrow, and not to shrink in despair from today’s evils. Instead, knowing our weakness, we can seek first the kingdom, trusting the Lord to take care of all our needs. As we seek, we yield. As we yield, we discover the prosperity and peace that is ours in Christ.
Questions for Reflection
How might your frailty be an invitation to stop worrying?
What worries in your life right now need to be surrendered to God and his strength? What are the biggest obstacles you face in dropping worry and carrying your cross?
How can you help to make the burdens of others around you a little lighter today?
Praying with Scripture
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Mt 11:28–30)
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Mark C. McCann is an author and Ministry Consultant with more than 30 years of writing and ministry experience. He has published articles for a number of Catholic magazines and websites including St. Anthony Messenger, Emmanuel Magazine, Liguorian Magazine, Catholic Stand, the Connecticut Catholic Men's Conference, and Homiletic and Pastoral Review. He recently published the 4-volume Catholic men's devotional, To the Ends of the Earth, as well as the 2021 Advent Daybreaks devotional and 2022 Lenten Daybreaks devotional with Liguori Publishing. He has also released his End Times novel series, Jacob's Dream: The Vision and Jacob's Dream: The Final Battle. He was a radio host and producer for 8 years at a Connecticut Christian radio station and has worked as a Catholic religion teacher/campus minister and a parish youth minister. He has also served the Norwich, CT Diocese as a Youth Ministry Director and Family Life Director. He currently lives in Connecticut with his Proverbs 31 wife, where together they have brought up three incredible children. He strives each day to live out his call to be a man of words. You can learn more about Mark and his writing at www.wordsnvisions.com.
