https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060524.cfm
Die a Little, Gain a Lot
Georgie and Charlie were my neighbors when I was a child, and I often hung out with them. Their homegrown sweet corn on the cob caught my attention immediately. I was fascinated by how they planted seeds in neat rows in the ground.
Gradually, the sprout appeared, along with the stalk and the corn on it. I was amazed at how that tiny seed transformed into ears of corn. Trying to comprehend resurrection with our human minds is like trying to picture an ear of corn by examining only the seed, without ever seeing the ear.
The Sadducees, who rejected the idea of resurrection, mocked Jesus with a foolish question: If a woman marries seven men, whose wife will she be in the resurrection? Their doubt about the resurrection arises from placing their own understanding above God.
When we put ourselves above God, questions arise, such as, “Will our hair retain the same color in the resurrection?” Will we be healthy and in our prime? What will our appearance be? What will our bodies be like in the resurrection? Will we have pot bellies?
Imagine someone who has only seen seeds, not the mature corn plant. A complete transformation takes place from the colorless, lifeless seed to the stalk-bearing corn.
Reflect on the Consecration during the Holy Mass on the altar. Although we partake of Jesus’s Body and Blood, He also transforms us into Himself. As we surrender to Jesus, He influences all our thoughts, feelings, desires, wills, and memories. He changes them from small seeds—ordinary human beings—into beautiful flowers for God—other Christs.
Gospel Challenge:
The seed dies and is buried with Jesus, only to rise with Him. Dying a little more daily so that others may live brings deep and lasting joy to our hearts, and Jesus is our joy. His joy is our strength in moments we experience another person’s suffering. Do not be afraid. Jesus is with us.
Peace to all of you.
Love your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
