“The Mustard Seed” Sketch: Ronald Raab, CSC

Gospel Luke 17:5-10: Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.” The Lord replied, “If you have the faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, “Be uprooted and planted in the sea,” and it would obey you.

“Who among you would say to your servant who has just come in from the plowing or tending sheep in the field, ‘Come here immediately and take your place at table? Would he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare something for me to eat. Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink. You may eat and drink when I am finished’? Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded? So should it be with you. When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.'”

Life is beautiful. The seed of who we are is unique for each one of us. Yet, the core of who we are is our relationship with God. Faith is not something to be increased, it is not a commodity. What needs to be increased is our awareness of God’s fidelity. Faith is a treasure of relying on God for our total lives. This humility changes our lives. We are servants of this seed. We glory in the God who calls us into uniqueness, love and service toward others and toward the Seed-Giver, the God who loves us.

How is God calling you to recognize your true gifts, your ability to use your voice and talents in the world?

How is the seed of faith changing your perceptions of who you are and your life of serving others?

What is God asking of you? Do you believe in this call even though it may seem impossible?