David wanted to build a house for God - a temple. Even though the prophet approved the project, God did not. God chided David a bit, asking whether He (God) had ever voiced the need or desire for a dwelling. God turned the tables by promising to build a house for David - a ruling dynasty - that would last forever. There would always be one of his descendants on the throne of Israel, even if they were unworthy - and many were not. God would never abandon David. Just as God promised the house of David, God is also always faithful and always journeys with us.

Why do so few people respond to the Word of God? Why do so many slip away after believing? In this mysterious parable, the Sower scatters seeds far and wide - the seeds fall everywhere. Some don't sprout at all, while others do, but only for a while. Sooner or later, the cares of the world or temptations knock people off track. But for those few who take the words or seeds to heart and joyfully embrace them, they will bear fruit abundantly. God is not to be blamed, for the seed is given equally to all. But it is up to the recipients to make it grow and bear fruit. Have we taken the words of the Gospel into our hearts and souls? Do we nurture these words? Is this what sustains and nourishes us?