Daily Catholic Lectio. Fri, 31 January ’25. Without doing anything!

Daily Catholic Lectio

Fri, 31 January ‘25

Third Week in Ordinary Time – Friday

Hebrews 10:32-39. Psalm 37. Mark 4:26-34

Without doing anything!

Jesus presents two parables of the Kingdom of God (gospel reading): “The Seed that Grows by Itself” and “The Mustard Seed that Becomes a Great Tree.” What do these parables teach us about God’s reign or kingdom?

The Kingdom of God grows gradually. No one can stop or reverse its growth. It is not human effort but the inner power of the seed that drives this transformation. It is God’s power that makes God’s kingdom possible, not our efforts. 

A small seed can produce abundant fruit. It reaches its full potential despite its humble beginning. Kingdom of God which seems to be insignificant in the beginning becomes noteworthy and effective.

Let us apply these two parables to our lives:

1. Doing nothing at all!

In today’s world, management principles urge us to control everything. We are taught to measure and maximize every outcome. Productivity and efficiency dominate modern thinking. However, many of life’s greatest moments happen on their own.

We did not plan our birth, nor can we schedule our death. Many of life’s sweetest moments occur naturally. Children, the elderly, and the sick may not directly contribute to productivity—should we, then, disregard them? We often try to control life’s natural rhythm. We may place boundaries above the ground for a tree, but we cannot stop its roots from spreading beneath. Thus, we must learn to accept life’s natural flow. Despite our meticulous planning, many things unfold in ways beyond our control.

Our hearts beat without our effort. Our brains coordinate bodily functions without our command. The universe itself moves forward without us doing anything. Sometimes, stepping back and observing this process with joy is the wisest course of action.

2. Unleashing our full potential

Leonardo da Vinci once said, “A flower blooms to its fullest and then disappears. In the same way, every person must fulfil their potential.”

The mustard seed is weak, tiny, and easily overlooked. Yet, its inner strength propels it forward. It grows into a mighty tree, offering shade and shelter to birds.

Are we using our full potential? Often, our self-limiting beliefs confine us. But passion and ability must hand in hand. When we align our enthusiasm with meaningful action, our energy multiplies. Neither our thoughts nor external circumstances should restrict our growth.

Faith and perseverance lead to growth. In the first reading, the author praises the community: “You endured a great struggle with suffering!” Like the seed, growth comes through struggle. Determination and perseverance are essential for progress.

The author also proclaims: “The righteous shall live by faith.” Faith is the inner strength that sustains us. It brings life, allowing us to flourish into trees that offer shelter and comfort to others.

Psalm 37 echoes this truth: “Take delight in the Lord, and He will grant the desires of your heart.” True strength and energy come from rejoicing in the Lord (Neh 8:10).

Saint John Bosco

Today, we remember Saint John Bosco, who dedicated his life to the welfare of young people. He recognized their potential and encouraged them to achieve greatness. He, too, fulfilled his own potential by founding the Salesian Society, inspiring generations.

Let us pray for the Salesian priests, brothers, and sisters who continue his mission. May they be blessed abundantly!

Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy