The parable of the sower taught in today's gospel (Mk. 4:1-20) has an important truth. We can teach and preach all our lives, but we cannot convince everyone to respond to the word that gives life and joy.

Jesus had great difficulty convincing others when He preached. But it was only after Jesus, the Sower and Seed, was buried and rose again, that His words and life were understood by His followers.

Today, we are reminded that we can 'lead a horse to water, but we cannot force him to drink'. We can share and be the Word for others, but we cannot force them to change. Ours is the task to keep sowing the seeds and leave the fruits of conversion and growth to the Holy Spirit.

Lord Jesus, may Your Spirit empower me not to look for the fruits of my labour, but to faithfully sow the seeds for Your glory and kingdom. Amen