SOWING WITH FAITH
In just a few years we are passing from a society that’s profoundly religious, where Christianity played a decisive role in people’s lives and in social living together, to another style of life more lay and unbelieving, where what’s religious goes about losing importance.
Accustomed to a «society of Christianity» where what’s religious was visibly present in our streets, town squares, schools and homes, there are many believers who feel bad and suffer in the face of the new situation.
Even more. Almost without realizing it we can start thinking that the Gospel has lost its former strength, and Jesus’ message no longer has a hold or strength of conviction for modern man.
That’s why it’s necessary to listen attentively to Jesus’ parable. Though apparently insignificant and modest, the Gospel keeps enclosing a powerful strength to «save» man from what dehumanizes him. Only with difficulty will we encounter something or someone that could give a more human and liberating sense to our lives.
It’s certain that, in order to exercise its liberating force, this Gospel must be presented faithfully, in its whole truth, demands and hope. Without bias or cowardice. Without intentional shortcuts or interested manipulations.
It’s also certain that the Gospel demands a sincere welcome and complete readiness. And many are the factors that can smother and annul the efficacy of Jesus’ word, like riches, selfish interests or cowardice.
But the Gospel keeps holding today an unsuspected humanizing energy. To forget it would be a lamentable mistake for modern society. In any case, we believers must remember that it’s not the time of «harvest», but the hour of sowing with faith in the renewing energy that is enclosed in the Gospel.
José Antonio Pagola
Translator: Fr. Jay VonHandorf
