Plucking Heads of Grain
This week after the hectic seasons of Lent then Easter followed by Ascension, Pentecost and Corpus Christi we are back in Ordinary Time. In the North we are well within Spring and here in the Tropics it is the start of the rainy season. June has the most hours of daylight. The sun, now, makes its highest arc through the sky. This is the time when animal and plant growth are at their peak.
The restart of Ordinary Time is serene and predictable. Nature, no longer in a hurry, has transitioned from the frantic push of bulbs blossoming into flowers, the arrival of migrating birds, and the rush of breeding season. Now, Mother Nature and the Church pause, take a deep breath and adjust to the calming rhythm of daily living.
Trees, flush with new leaves, once again cast the cool shade they have provided since the mountains were new. They form a comforting canopy with sunlight filtering through, giving voice to the eternal rhythm of breathing. Ordinary Time in June speaks in a peaceful language all its own.
The Gospel, Mark 2: 23, starts with the line ‘One sabbath he was going through the grainfields and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain.’ it captures the mood of June. We too walk through these days ‘plucking heads of grain’, earning a living, by our work, and praying as we go along. We pray for those in between jobs hoping that gainful employment will come soon.
As followers of Christ, there is always work to be done in His name, but we also need to earn a living. Balancing our spiritual and earthly responsibilities, we seek to fulfill our roles with grace, finding purpose in both our labor and our faith. This harmonious blend of work and prayer reflects the tranquil rhythm of June, a time of growth and sustenance, both in nature and in our lives.
We also belong to community and we must be mindful of those trying to earn a living. How can we contribute? By extending a helping hand and fostering an environment of support and encouragement. This can involve offering jobs and job leads to those in need, providing mentorship and guidance to help others develop their skills, and creating opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth.
Our contributions can also take the form of volunteering our time and resources to local organizations that assist job seekers, advocating for fair wages and working conditions, and supporting small businesses and local artisans. By actively participating in our community and showing compassion for our neighbors, we embody the teachings of Christ and strengthen the bonds that hold us together, ensuring that everyone has the chance to thrive.
God has provided enough resources for all, and we must ensure our economics reflect this abundance. This means advocating for policies and practices that promote equitable distribution of wealth and opportunities. We should support sustainable and ethical business practices that prioritize the well-being of workers and the environment.
By investing in education and healthcare, we can empower individuals to achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. Additionally, fostering a spirit of generosity and stewardship within our communities can help bridge gaps and ensure that no one is left behind. In doing so, we honor God's provision and work towards a more just and compassionate world.
In this season of Ordinary Time in June, as nature and the Church take a deep breath and settle into a tranquil rhythm, we are reminded of our roles as stewards of God's creation and members of our community. Just as we walk through the days, plucking heads of grain and praying for those seeking employment, we also recognize our responsibility to support and uplift each other.
As we balance our work and prayer, let us strive to create a world where everyone can thrive, honoring the abundant resources God has provided and ensuring that His blessings are shared by all.
NOTICE BOARD
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