We can faithfully attend Mass, pray our rosaries, fast during Lent, and support the parish, yet still fail to show patience, forgiveness, or kindness to those around us.

God does not approach us with condemnation or harshness. He comes with gentleness.

There is a tremendous difference between being knowledgeable and being teachable.

Today I want to begin with two statements that have become incredibly common.

The first is:

“I believe in God… I just don’t need religion.”

The second is:

“I just don’t like the Catholic religion.”

Is Jesus truly first in your life? Are you willing to remain faithful even when it costs you something? Do you recognize that the small acts of charity you perform each day have eternal value?

This parable is not really about farming. It is about us. It is about the condition of the human heart.

Ask St. Benedict to intercede for us, that we may be people who listen attentively to God, trust confidently in His providence, and never be afraid to acknowledge Jesus Christ by the way we live.

Remain gentle without becoming weak! Trust the Holy Spirit when you feel inadequate! Persevere even when discipleship is difficult!

Jesus sends the Twelve on their very first mission. Before they have years of experience, before they have everything figured out, He simply says: “As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”

Mission always begins with relationship. The apostles are not self-appointed. They are chosen, formed, and then sent.