King David had grand plans — he was going to build a house for God. The problem was that God didn't want one! God made it quite clear that he had no need of one, that he had travelled with the Israelites through the wilderness without a house, and that it was presumption to build this temple. He had always shown faithful love to Israel and would continue to do so, especially to David’s descendants. God would see to it that his throne lasted forever. Relationships are built on love and fidelity, not fancy homes or rich presents. We create a proper home for others and for God by the quality and depth of our love.

When we labour in the vineyard of the Lord or do good deeds, we would like to see the results. Sometimes there is nothing; at other times, the results are a long time in coming. It is easy to get frustrated and disillusioned. The parable of the sower teaches us to keep scattering loving and holy words, thoughts, and deeds but not to wait around for the results. That is not our job. Someone else will harvest where we have sown — we need to keep moving without looking back. Each day we have the opportunity to scatter the seeds of the Kingdom. God is the one who makes them grow, not us. Let us be tireless sowers of the Word of God.