Reflection for Tuesday, October 25, 2005: 30th week in Ordinary Time.
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Authors
Wirth, Eileen
Issue Date
2005-10-25
Type
Essay
Language
en_US
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Abstract
This reflection on today's Gospel is for my sister because it speaks to growth, in our case the growth and healing of our relationship. Like the mustard seed in Luke's beautiful passage, we never know how powerful some small gesture of friendship, kindness or reconciliation might turn out to be _ and how we will be the ultimate beneficiaries.|I was the second child, growing up in the shadow of my beautiful, smart and driven older sister. Who wouldn't resent this at least a little bit? Stupidly I carried those feelings into adulthood and stoked up quite a repertoire of additional grievances, many exaggerated. We were civil but I withheld the genuine warmth I knew she wanted. Who was I really hurting?|In a grace-filled moment, I realized that I had to change and the best place to start was with our relationship. I couldn't do much about world peace while carrying around such a personal grudge. I made a tiny gesture _like planting a mustard seed _ and told my sister some nice things about herself that were true but not in keeping with my cherished resentments. It felt a little phony but my mind said, do it. I had unknowingly planted the mustard seed.|She responded with warmth. We started spending more time together and enjoying it. My tense civility gave way to genuine warmth. We became the closest of friends and now communicate constantly via email. I often tell her how much I admire her and appreciate her; I mean every word. My only regret is the years I wasted before planting that seed.|Maybe this is how we build the Kingdom of God _ one mustard seed-sized gesture at a time.
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Citation
Publisher
University Ministry, Creighton University.
License
These reflections may not be sold or used commercially without permission. Personal or parish use is permitted.