Unless a Grain of Wheat Dies

"Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit." (Jn 12:24 RSV)

From death is brought forth new life. Old things have passed away, and all things are made new. God, you seek to transform me, to make me into a vessel worthy of you. How can this happen unless I be reborn? And yet, can a man re-enter his mother's womb? Through baptism you have provided the way to new life. I pass, as through the Red Sea, from my old life to new life. As the waters of baptism wash over me, you cleanse my soul from sin, and place your mark upon me, claiming me for your own. I must now strive to live my baptismal grace, your gift to me. I must strive to live as one dead to sin, and alive unto God.

And so I struggle each day to keep my eyes on things above, to keep my eyes on Jesus, the fore-runner of our salvation. He has shown us the path to ever-lasting life through the example he set for us. His passion demonstrated his love for you and for us. And so I must do the same, I must take up my cross and follow you. Thank you Lord for your grace, your grace which gives me the capacity to live this new life.

"For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his." (Rm 6:5 RSV)