(Part 2 of 5. The series begins here.)
Some of the farmer’s seed fall on the path. It blows away, gets trampled, or eaten by birds. Essentially, it is lost.
The seed is God’s Word. Some people who hear His message of grace turn away. Essentially, it is lost.
What is my role? What is my charge in helping to soften the path so the seed can take root? As believer, I must create the space for people to hear the Word.
Sometimes, we the church have actually created the hard-packed path with our ancient rules, arrogant authority, hypocritical behaviors, and uninspired worship. Sometimes, I’ve laid the path with my own selfish ways and neglect of the needs around me. Sometimes, the path is paved by tragic events in someone’s life.
Regardless, the path is real…
What of the seed? What is it to understand? It is the lack of need. If someone is missing something, he or she would seek to find it and to satisfy the need. Without this hunger, without knowing one’s soul is struggling, there remains no need to be satisfied.
When someone comes to recognize this restlessness in his or her heart, then the seed has a place to go. It can take root. The roots sink into an inviting, rich soil seeking nourishment and permanence.
So, how do people come to understand? Scripture clearly shows that the Holy Spirit is the mover of hearts. I, however, can pray. I can be available as His vessel to serve and care for those around me.
My prayer: Direct my ways today, Lord. Guide me to clearly explain the need we each have. May my life reflect the beauty of Your grace and help crumble the path. And, Lord, soften the hearts of those who do not know you. May they come to seek Your presence.
Read the next post on the Parable of the Sower.
(Read Jesus’ words in Matthew 13:1-23 Mark 4:1-20 Luke 8:4-15)
Posted by Sharon R. Hoover
Photo Credit: madison.murphy via photo pin cc
