The Parable of the Sower

I have heard sermons preached on the parable of the sower many times. Recently though, as I sat before the Lord and opened my Bible, my eyes fell upon this passage and felt like the Lord speaking into my heart in a new and refreshing way. I love these reminders that Scripture is alive and active, which means that these verses don't get stale with re-reading. I want to be completely honest here. In the past few years since releasing my first book Angels In Our Midst, life has been quite the journey, and I have had a stiff learning curve about how to balance life between business and home. Undoubtedly, I have had some really, really great times, full of opportunities to meet all kinds of wonderful people, hear their stories and vulnerably share my own journey. It's been a blessing. Yet, on the flip side of the coin, I have also experienced some really, really tough times as I navigate life as a business owner, a wife and a mom. With everything that continues to swirl around my life, I continue to cling to God’s Word and the unwavering truth that He will direct each and every step. Here is a look into the Parable of the Sower, in its new-to-me-light. Jesus tells the story of a farmer who goes out and sows his seeds. He continues to tell us that the seeds fell on four different types of ground: a worn path where birds will come and snatch up the seeds; a rocky place that did not have much soil, causing the plants that sprouted to wither without moisture or roots; another set of seed fell among thorns and got choked out. The last handful of seed was delivered in good soil and produced a crop. For the sake of getting to know each other better in this space, you should know that I am not a gardener. so wish I had been given the ‘green thumb’.  My sister, on the other hand, did receive that gift and has created an amazing garden that is flourishing with lush green plants, fruits and vegetables.  I have seen firsthand what happens when you plant a seed in ‘good soil’…you get a crop producing more than you could imagine. Luke’s account for this parable: The seed is the Word of God. Those along the path are the ones that hear, and then the Devil comes and takes away the Word from their hearts, so they may not believe and be saved.  Those on the rock are the ones who receive the Word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root.  They believe for a while but in the time of testing they fall away. The seed that fell among the thorns stand for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures and they do not mature.  But the seed that falls on good soil stand for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by preserving produce a crop. As I read this passage again, I had to check the condition of the “soil” in my heart.  In the ‘good times’ I know that the soil is conditioned just right. It's rich and fertile and welcomes the falling seed; however, in the struggles of life I have to be careful not to be choked by life’s worries, or let riches or pleasures get in the way. I realized that while it was important for the sower to plant his seed carefully, it was just as important for him to cultivate good soil. Any soil left untended will become less than ideal for planting. Without constant tending, weeding, tilling and fertilizing it will become arid and inhospitable, no matter how strong the seed that is planted. It isn't just about the seed... It's about examining my own soil and cultivate it into a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a daily habit of making sure that God’s Word, His promises fall on good soil. His seed is always good. I am dedicated to making sure my soil is as well. Has God shown you new meat in a familiar passage? I would love to hear it!