Clearing the Thorns: Ascetic Practice in the World

Inspired by the Gospel reading for Sunday, the Parable of the Sower, Bp. Irineos looks at Christ's explanation of the parable, and particularly the seed that fell among thorns, which Christ explains are "the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity." Bp. Irineos discusses specific ascetic practices that the faithful can take to avoid being overcome by the cares of the world and to work to clear the thorns and dwell on the good ground!The New King James Version. (1982). (Lk 8:14–15). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.