Comments from today's study

Among many comments in this morning's study, here are a few notable ones:

1. Jesus gave the Twelve this batch of parables. How does he intend the apostles to use the parables?

   Jesus intended them for teaching others, using images from everyday life. Ken offered that the parables were good because you can make them your own, meditate on them, and gradually see the wisdom and meaning of the parable as the Lord reveals it to you... a lot like seeds, out of sight but growing slowly, eventually yielding fruit!

2. Does the Church give us lay men a responsibility to be handy with parables, too?

   Our answer: YES!
   
   Even we civilians have a responsibility to spread the message. The Vatican II decree on the apostolate of the laity, part 3, says that all Christians hold "the preeminent responsibility of working to make the divine message of salvation known and accepted by all men throughout the world." Presumably this means we should even use parables if necessary!
   

3. Which parable could you have used recently in your family or in your job?

   Sal mentioned that when dealing with objections or difficulties from other individuals, you have to remember that seeds sometimes fall on rocky ground. His advice: keep an attitude of humility, for this is what defeats the pride of the Enemy.
   
   Len also mentioned that the calming of the seas is very helpful to remember when we are in times of trouble.

4. Was it a parable when Jesus rebuked the winds and calmed the Sea of Galilee?

   No, not a parable as such. However, it was definitely a strong, direct learning experience for the Twelve. Instead of following the logic of Jesus' parables, and instead of observing him work miracles for others, this time they were right smack dab in the middle of it, flesh and blood, no question about it.

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