In Jesus' time, most people worked the land as farmers. Modern farm mechanization didn't exist. Recall that people wore ankle-length robes at the time. The method of sowing seeds in Jesus' time was for each person to go to the seedpile, grab their garment at the knees, and pull the garment up toward their waist. This created a "pocket," into which the landowner poured as much seed as the person and garment could hold. The person carried the seeds into the field and sowed them by hand until the "pocket" was empty of seed. Then he returned to the seedpile for the next load of seeds. This process was repeated daily until all fields were completely sown.

Jesus promised that those who give will receive in "good measure pressed down, shaken together, running over...[poured] into the fold of" their garment (Lk 6:38; see also Ru 3:15; Mal 3:10). This means that you who give to Jesus will receive even more work to do. However, you will be given more resources with which to serve Him, and your work will result in a great harvest, even a hundredfold one (Mk 4:20).

Jesus challenges each of us this Lent to work for Him more than ever before. His heart yearns for all to be saved and know the truth (1 Tm 2:4). He longs to gather His estranged children under His wings (Lk 13:34). Jesus says to all His disciples: "Listen to what I say: Open your eyes and see! The fields are shining for harvest!" (Jn 4:35) "Do whatever He tells you" (Jn 2:5).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 8, 2013

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