Now there is change that I can, and do, believe in.
In preparing for cantoring at Mass this week-end, I looked over the readings. They bring me great comfort as we mourn Tony’s death. I truly see God’s loving hand at work in bringing Tony home at this time.
Reading 1, Isaiah 55:10-11:
Just as from the heavens the rain and SNOW come down and do not return there till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful, giving seed to the one who sows and bread to the one who eats, so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; my word shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it.
The Responsorial Psalm refrain from Psalm 65:
The seed that falls on good ground will yield a fruitful harvest.
Reading 2, Rom 8:18-23:
I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us. For creation awaits with eager expectation the revelation of the children of God; for creation was made subject to futility, not of its own accord but because of the one who subjected it, in hope that creation itself would be set free from slavery to corruption and share in the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that all creation is groaning in labor pains even until now; and not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, we also groan within ourselves as we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies.
Gospel Mt 13:1-23 or 13:1-9 (excerpt)
But the seed sown on rich soil is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold.”