I have read this one of Jesus’ parables a number of times. This is the one where the farmer sets about his business of sowing his field. As he spreads his seed some falls on the path and is eaten immediately, others seed falls on rocky soil where it flowers then dies because of the sun, more seed still falls on soil overtaken by thorns the plants begin to grow but then die, finally some of the seed falls on good soil and a crop is produced. Not only have I read this parable, but I have heard it taught many times. I have even taught it on a couple occasions. As I was preparing for Wednesday night and I was study this passage I approached it like I had all the times before. That anyone who is a believer is good soil. That I was good soil.
Then I got sick. I have been fighting a cold/allergies all week. I found myself reading a book for fun for a change. The book that had been waiting on deck was Francis Chan’s “Crazy Love”. He made a statement in this book that blew my perspective. He said don’t assume that you are the good soil. Isn’t that true. I always want to assume the best about myself. Am I living with an emotional faith that will wither at the first sign of difficultly (Rocky Soil)? Then there is the thorny soil. I say we rename this soil typical American church-goer soil. Jesus description of this soil boils down to this. If God is only a part of your life and is not your life than you are thorny soil. If God is not your master (or your captain as the KJV puts it) directing everything you are involved in then you might be endanger of being thorny soil. Anything we are involved in can be thorns. Am I really seeking first God’s kingdom?
Wow! I was broken by a parable I thought I knew. I still am reflecting three days later. As I ponder and untangle this more I will try to keep up with my thoughts here.