The prophet Jeremiah lived in the kingdom of Judah in the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE. At God's request, he urged the people to stop worshipping idols. Using words and symbols, he called them to be faithful to God's covenant or face great suffering. This was not a popular message. It was heard by the people, but not acted upon. Eventually, Jerusalem was attacked by the Babylonians and many were taken into exile.

Today Jesus explains the meaning of the parable of the sower. The seed falls on various places with varying results. On the ideal ground, the word is heard, understood and then bears fruit.

The values of the Gospel are not easy to live by. It is a challenge to be faithful to God. Jesus does not deny this difficulty.

We are invited to know the Word of God, to read Scripture and become familiar with these teachings. The more we study, discuss and reflect upon the Word, the more we understand it. Yet, there is one more step. We are invited to let what we understand affect how we live. When we do this, we bear fruit.

As I reflect on my life, are there any idols - things I place before God? Am I called to change anything so as to be more faithful to God?