Both parables of the Gospel this weekend speak about the seed that was planted which yielded a great harvest. One cannot help but recognize that Jesus is alluding to the fact that the seed is our faith. Once a seed is planted it is nurtured and cared for; as a result of such attention the seed grows and many reap the benefits of its fruit. The same holds true here with the seed of faith that has been planted in our hearts, minds, and in our very being. This seed of faith needs attention, care, and nurturing. We must tend to the garden of our souls each and every day. When my dad planted his vegetable garden in the yard, he didn’t just have us drop seeds and walk away. No, we helped water the garden, pick out the weeds, tie up the stocks of tomato plants, and when the time came — pick the vegetables. There was a great deal of work that went into making sure the garden was properly cared for and tended. I think we must make every effort to put more time and energy into the garden of our souls, which house the seeds of faith. This week take time to pray, reflect, read the Bible, attend holy Mass. In other words, get out into your garden.