16th Week in Ord. Time, Thursday – 21st July 2022 — Gospel: Mt 13,10-17
Openness in Understanding
The disciples wanted to know why Jesus had begun speaking to the crowds in parables. The crowds didn’t want to see, hear, or understand Jesus. They were entrenched in their ways of thinking and not open to Jesus’ teaching. Openness would require the willingness to change, instead they had closed their eyes and ears, “lest they see… and hear… and understand… and be converted.” Understanding the parables of Jesus is not simply a matter of using one’s intellect, but a grace given by God himself. It is given to those who acknowledge their dependence on God. Only those who have committed themselves to follow Jesus are given an insight into the mysteries of the kingdom. Since they have Jesus as their teacher, they will be able to understand all there is to know. The closed attitude of those who do not wish to follow is what is responsible for their lack of understanding.
