With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.
Mum and daughter Kate and Hannah are parish volunteers from West Yorkshire
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you,
because by your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world.
Moved by Jesus’ pain, Veronica’s love overcomes her fear and she courageously steps forward to wipe the blood and sweat from Jesus’ face. She cannot change his fate, but recognising his dignity, she faithfully performs her small act of compassion. As the guards force Jesus onward, the image of his face is left on Veronica’s veil.
“There are a lot of problems in our world – inequality, poverty, climate change, to name a few – and it can feel overwhelming and like nothing really changes.” reflect mother and daughter Kate and Hannah who are CAFOD parish volunteers in West Yorkshire. “But we are motivated by our faith. The parable of the mustard seed helps us to remember that even small actions can make a lifesaving difference.”
At this station, we pray for the grace to look for opportunities to do small acts of kindness and generosity. In so doing, we recognise the face of Jesus in our neighbours, and he imprints his face on each of us.
Jesus, our teacher,
as you journey to the Cross,
you show us the way of your kingdom.
May we not grow discouraged
but be always ready to act
with compassion and hope.
Amen.
Every Friday we send a reflection based on the Sunday gospel with inspiring prayers, and ways to put your faith into action.
