The Seed that Falls on Good Ground Will Yield a Fruitful Harvest

The Seed that Falls on Good Ground Will Yield a Fruitful Harvest

Wisconsin is in need of much rain. The first reading and psalm use the imagery of farming. Isaiah compares God’s word to the rain and snow that come down from heaven. Psalm 65 assures that no matter how slow we are to receive the seed (the Word of God), God is walking the earth, breaking up the clods and showering the land with rain. We thank God for the abundant winter and May rains preparing the soil. No matter what resistances we may put up, God will persist. As we pray and reflect on the verses, let us notice all of creation; let us respect all creation; let us protect all creation. Let us be open to the work God is doing and join all the world’s fields and valleys in shouting for joy over God’s indomitable power.

You, O God, tend and water the land. How wonderful the harvest!
You fill your springs, ready the seeds, prepare the grain.
You soak the furrows and level the ridges.
With softening rain you bless the land with growth.

You crown the year with riches. All you touch comes alive:
untilled lands yield crops, hills are dressed in joy,
flocks clothe the pastures, valleys wrap themselves in grain.
They all shout for joy and break into song.

[verses adapted from The Psalter © 1995, Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publications.]