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Gospel Reading for July 24, 2026 – Matthew 13: 18-23
SURE GUIDE
Jesus said to his disciples: “Hear the parable of the sower. The seed sown on the path is the one who hears the word of the Kingdom without understanding it, and the Evil One comes and steals away what was sown in his heart. The seed sown on rocky ground is the one who hears the word and receives it at once with joy. But he has no root and lasts only for a time.
When some tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, he immediately falls away. The seed sown among thorns is the one who hears the word, but then worldly anxiety and the lure of riches choke the word and it bears no fruit. 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.”
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When we attend conferences, seminars, meetings, or other events that are important to us, we listen attentively to the speakers. Even before the event begins, we eagerly anticipate what we can learn from them. We also make sure to collect any reading materials that are provided because we know they can help us better understand the topics being discussed.
Now imagine this: whenever Jesus speaks in the Bible, it is God himself speaking to us. Jesus is the Word made flesh. What an extraordinary privilege it is to hear God speak through his Son! Although we cannot see him with our physical eyes, we hear his voice whenever we read or listen to his Word.
Yet, how often do we take this priceless gift for granted? Perhaps it is because we sometimes think of the Bible as just another book. But the Bible is far more than a book. Through its pages, God speaks to us. And best of all, when we listen with open hearts, we receive the greatest gift of all—a SURE GUIDE to everlasting life.
Lord Jesus, make our hearts like rich soil, ready to receive the seed of your Word, so that it may take root, grow, and bear abundant fruit in our lives. Amen.
