Ephesians 5:21-33 / Luke 13:18-21
Human determination, will-power and commitment are certainly noble and inspirational.
Yet, we also know that human beings are weak and prone to failings.
And from our own experience, we know that we ourselves have fallen short in our determination, will-power and commitment.
In the 1st reading, St. Paul reflects about the marriage commitment between husband and wife.
As much as determination and commitment is need for married couples to keep their marriage strong, St. Paul also brings in another factor.
He brings in the God-factor in marriage. When married couples understand the necessity of the presence of Christ in their marriage, then their marriage will be blessed with the love of God.
And it is the love of God that will empower the human determination and commitment, and also guide married couples and humanity to understand the will and the plan of God.
The gospel parables points to the power of God in bringing growth to nature.
And the love of God also empowers nature to bear fruit for His glory and for the good of humanity.
And it is the power and the love of God that will bring our determination, will-power and commitment to fulfill His will and His plan.