Through the use of stories we know as parables, Jesus helps us to understand and desire God’s Kingdom.

Today we hear Jesus’ parable of the sower and the seed (Matthew 13:1-9).

The sower – God – speaks His Word far and wide. No one is beyond God’s reach! In fact, from a worldly point of view, such tireless effort (sowing) seems extravagant and wasteful. And yet, the sower – God – never grows weary! The seed – God’s Word – always and everywhere is good. The key is found with our attitude; namely, is our attitude receptive or dismissive of God’s Word?

In Jesus’ story, the four different kinds of soil represent four different attitudes. A path is hardened and so can we be to God’s in-breaking. Rocky ground makes quick growth possible, but the lack of substantial soil – sincerity for God – quickly ends what had been so promising. Thorny ground enables more growth, however with time fruit is thwarted – other interests overtake what had been so promising. Only rich soil – genuine openness and deep desire for God’s Word to take hold – brings forth fruit that is as abundant as it is lasting.

O God, let your WORD take deep root in us today!