Mark 3:31–4:9

Not surprisingly. most Christians believe they live a very good life and are open to God’s Word in most instances. After all, we worship, we sing the hymns, and we say the prayers; what else is there? Certainly, as we reflect upon Jesus’ Parable of the Sower, we must be the good soil our Lord speaks of. Surely, as the seed of God’s Word is scattered throughout the congregation it will definitely fall upon good soil. Right?

The truth be told, everyone becomes preoccupied at times; we do not always listen intently. Sometimes, issues may find us more like the pathway. We are in the church, but our mind is elsewhere. Some in attendance may be like rocky ground, those who worship, but only a few times each year. When the minister says “Go in peace” they quickly fall back into worldly habits. Worries or distractions also present obstacles to our hearing. Preoccupied with other things, the gospel message may seem distant and unfamiliar.

To become good soil, Christians must practice spiritual discipline. We must pray earnestly, worship regularly, read scripture daily and participate in the Sacrament of the Altar. Jesus calls us to produce fruit for God’s kingdom. Therefore, as disciples of Jesus, we must always strive to become good soil.

Lord let my heart be good soil, open to the seed of your Word. Amen.

Image: Farming Project, Lutheran Church in Congo – Boma, DRC (2015)