The Problem of Knowledge

Gospel: Matthew 13: 10-17

Why does Jesus teach in parables?  Today's Gospel portion offers an answer that sounds very Gnostic at first.  Jesus is made to say here that those with the special insight and knowledge, who have access to the mysteries, will know what the parables say.  Those who lack this secret power will be unable to penetrate the mysteries.  As in the explanation of the parable of the sower, this answer appears predetermining in terms of one's status before God now and at judgment.   

However, as we saw earlier, that parable taken by itself is designed to serve as a measuring stick in terms of our progress in the spiritual life.  We may at times see ourselves as shallow and without roots, and so our understanding and growth is limited.  In the same way, we are to see today's passage in a similar way.  Initially our understanding is shallow and surface level, but with perseverance and meditation, our knowledge and insight grows into the depth and meaning of Jesus' teaching.  

So, if we find ourselves struggling to understand things, we should not despair, nor give into fatalistic thinking.  The task before us is to return again and again to the parables, to sit with them, and empty ourselves in order to receive their depth of wisdom.  At first Nicodemus did not understand Jesus, but he returned again and again to the Lord.  He who first came in darkness eventually finds his way to the light at the cross of Jesus.  Let Nicodemus be our inspiration in the spiritual journey.