Daily Catholic Lectio
Wed, 24 January 2024
Wednesday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time
2 Samuel 7:4-17. Mark 4:1-20
Change of disposition
If we compare our being to an iceberg, what is visible above the water level is only 5%, and this refers to our external actions; what is hidden underneath is 95%, and this refers to our disposition or attitude. A change of disposition or attitude brings about a change in our being.
The gospel reading is divided into three sections: the parable of the sower, the purpose of the parables, and Jesus’ interpretation of the parable.
The seed, which is the word of God, has its potential. However, the seed bears fruit, depending on the soil. The different types of soil symbolise the varying receptivity of people to the message. The hardened path, rocky ground, thorny soil, and good soil illustrate the different responses to the Gospel, highlighting the importance of being receptive and prepared to receive the word for it to take root and bear fruit.
The seed represents the Word of God, and the different types of soil represent different responses to the message. Some people are resistant (hardened path), some are superficial and lack depth (rocky ground), some are distracted by worldly concerns (thorny soil), and some are receptive and bear fruit (good soil).
The change of actions depends on the change of disposition or attitude.
In the first reading, King David wishes to build a temple for the Lord. But the Lord makes David realise that his grandeur and glory come from God. And He promises that He will build him a dynasty. David is called to develop a disposition that is totally dependent on God.
David was like rocky soil, wishing to bear fruit quickly. But God makes him good soil by granting him rest from enemies, patience, and hope.
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The Synthesis Report that has been released at the end of the First Session of the Synod Assembly underlines that synodal attitude is more significant than synodal actions. (Jubilee A. D. 2025, bite 16).
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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