To see but not to see that’s Jesus’ question!

To see but not to see that’s Jesus’ question!

Matthew 13:10-17

Jesus speaks of the prophecy of Isaiah being fulfilled:

“You will listen and listen again, but not understand,

see and see again, but not perceive.

For the heart of this nation has grown coarse,

their ears are dull of hearing, and they have shut their eyes,

for fear they should see with their eyes,

hear with their ears,

understand with their heart,

and be converted

and be healed by me.”

Individually we are called by Christ to follow him. Therefore, the invitation from Christ is to listen to him. In a moment of reflection, we stop and think what are we listening too? Where do our opinions come from? What and who shapes the lives that we lead, is there an influencer who takes up our time and points us in certain directions?

Jesus was an influencer, one who did not have the spotlight of social media or the worldwide audience at his fingertips. Yet he spoke with an authority that touched the hearts of those who followed him, those who truly heard him too.

Touching the hearts and minds was a real task that Jesus had and when he speaks of talking in parables, he is indicating that there are moments in our lives we are given choices. One choice is to be influenced by Christ or to find meaning elsewhere.

What occupies our thoughts, our desires, our wants, where will we look for happiness, fulfilment, meaning?

How can we hear Christ and therefore see him for what he is, and receive the grace of an encounter that is life giving, life changing and far reaching too.

The life of Christ is abiding in his church, the fountain of grace is streaming healing, and life is offered in abundance. It is not for everyone, this can be a struggle to come to terms with when we welcome Jesus as “The” influencer of our own lives.

The following reflection/ poem reflects my thoughts on the gospel at Mass today

Jesus, the Influencer

The heart of many nations has grown distant

Individuals feed on a diet of social media content

Eyes see but perceive opinions, ears hear so much

An influencer posts a video, not everyone gets its touch

A familiar voice speaks about a new trend, and it appears

Clothing is purchased even when a price leaves great arrears

Faith is fruitful, when it is heard, when the influencer is seen

A preacher who teaches the basics of a valuable life’s routine

Christ the unarmed man, the healer who was raised from death

A man of substance, the God of hope, the zenith of love’s depth!

Choose life eternal, listen to him!

Make of life a melody of grace, a wonder filled hymn!

Fr Patrick Brennan 2025 © all rights reserved

Source: http://humblepiety.blogspot.com/2025/07/to-see-but-not-to-see-thats-jesus.html