‘Hear then the parable of the sower. When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in the heart; this is what was sown on the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet such a person has no root, but endures only for a while, and when trouble or persecution arises on account of the word, that person immediately falls away.* As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the lure of wealth choke the word, and it yields nothing. But as for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.’
Observation:
What is the "word of the Kingdom?" It is the good news that Jesus brought through his powerful teachings. He healed, fed, and welcomed outcasts. He confronted evil, racial prejudice, and sinful abuses of power and wealth. He promised merciful justice for all,especially those at the bottom living under the yoke of oppression. He criticized bad stewardship that damaged lives. He called people to a higher law, love of God and neighbor (enemy and friend alike).
What prevents this word from growing and spreading? 1. A failure of understanding. 2. Shallow roots + Trouble, hardship, persecution. 3. The cares of the world and the lure of wealth.
What causes growth? Hearing and understanding. Deep roots.
Application
Learning how to love and forgive and serve like Jesus (aka discipleship) is a kind of maturation process. And the soil matters. I have seen all of these soil descriptions played out. Even in my own life! I have failed to seek understanding. I have retreated in the face of challenges, trouble, or personal attack. I have been overcome by busyness and anxiety about money. I have failed to trust in God's abundant love. I have tried too hard to force growth. I have seen new hearers of the good news tempted away. I have seen doubts emerge when new faith faces ongoing challenges or troubles. They say, "Why hasn't life gotten easier since I've found faith in God? Doesn't God care?"
Soil matters. God is, not only a sower of seeds, but a cultivator of good soil. God prepares hearts to receive the word. Timing is everything. Kairos moments are like the Rototillers of the heart and mind. And roots are important. Roots are the faith community digging deeper together. We need each other to grow. But there is nothing at all without the seed and the sower. God is planting love and peace and joy and grace and mercy in people's hearts and minds. What happens after that? "Part mystery, part soil science." Theologians call it "faith".
Prayer
Lord, make my heart be good soil attentive to your word of love and grace. Amen.
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