Parables:  a form of both art and weaponry. 

There is a beauty to the way Jesus told parables.  They are straightforward and simple narratives about a mustard seed, a vineyard, yeast or a king.  Jesus is able to artistically convey a rich story in a few simple lines.  However this is only part of its purpose.  Parables are also a weapon, used to challenge the worldview of the hearers who are then called to new action.

The word “parable”

The word parable comes from the Greek παραβολή (parabolē), literally “alongside” (para-) and “throwing” (bolē).  In a parable, one idea is thrown alongside another, for example: the infinite Love of God, and the father of the Prodigal Son. The resulting creative tension between the abstract reality and the concrete story, makes for very clear, very powerful and various efficacious communication.

Are we really the faithful people of God?

A parable is not directed at people to whom we might talk to about Jesus.  It is rather directed toward those of us who think that we are the faithful people of God.  It is you and I who are challenged by this parable to reflect upon our response to Jesus.  Are we the seed which has taken deep root and devoted ourselves entirely to the work of the kingdom?  Or have we become complacent and distracted by other things?  Being a disciple of Jesus is a life-long commitment.

Lloyd Baugh, S.J.

Associate Pastor