Matthew 13:47-53
Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a net cast into the sea, and gathering together of all kinds of fishes. Which, when it was filled, they drew out, and sitting by the shore, they chose out the good into vessels, but the bad they cast forth. So shall it be at the end of the world. The angels shall go out, and shall separate the wicked from among the just. And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Have ye understood all these things? They say to him: Yes. He said unto them: Therefore every scribe instructed in the kingdom of heaven, is like to a man that is a householder, who bringeth forth out of his treasure new things and old. And it came to pass: when Jesus had finished these parables, he passed from thence.
In Matthew 13:47-53, Jesus compares the Kingdom to a net that gathers fish of every kind. A time of separation will come, reminding us that our choices matter. God’s mercy is wide, but discipleship calls for a sincere response. This Gospel invites us to live with spiritual awareness, not fear. Each day offers opportunities to choose what is good, true, and holy. Jesus also speaks of bringing out treasures old and new, encouraging us to value both the richness of tradition and the fresh grace God gives today.