A sower went out to sow. (Matthew 13:3)
The Kadupul Flower, which is native to Sri Lanka, is often called the most expensive flower in the world. In reality, however, it’s priceless.
The Kadupul Flower is so frail that it blooms just before midnight and perishes before the morning. Its sweet fragrance is also known for its calming, almost enchanting properties. Yet for all its special, almost mystical qualities, Kadupul Flower seeds are relatively inexpensive and quite ordinary looking.
Isn’t it odd to think that such a priceless flower can grow from an ordinary seed?
Perhaps the message of today’s Gospel—and the first reading as well—reflects this reality. We can easily think of humans as just ordinary seeds. After all, there are so many of them! And considering how our own challenges and trials can keep us focused on ourselves, it’s no surprise that we are tempted to pay little attention to those other poor souls who seem destined to fall on the path, in rocky soil, or among the weeds. They’re just seeds.
But we’re not just seeds—not a single one of us! The fact that God has created each of us in his own image and likeness makes us more valuable than even the Kadupul Flower. Each of us has been known, dedicated, and appointed by God to blossom when the moment is right so that we can fill the earth with the fragrance of his holiness.
This means that God asks us to watch over each other, especially those of our brothers and sisters who may have wound up on the footpath or among the rocks or thorns. He wants us to protect them and water their roots if they are in danger of dying. He is asking us to help them blossom into the unique, priceless flowers they are meant to become.
So ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes today. Make it a point to look outside your own little garden, and try to reach out to people who are hurting and in need. Remember the value of each of those anointed seeds, and help them blossom into priceless blooms.
“Lord, thank you for all that you’ve given me. I acknowledge that you have dedicated me to help save people in need. Help me find ways to care for them and nurture them.”
Father Ed Bakker
Anglican Catholic Church / Original Province
Mission of Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne
Launceston on Tasmania
Australia
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