We can picture the scene of Jesus sat on the boat as the crowds gathered to hear him teach. He taught in parables, simple stories that revealed truth about the kingdom of God. Mark 4 contains one of the most well-known parables of all, the parable of the sower.
The disciples were given the opportunity to sit with Jesus, ask questions and explore his teaching in more depth. There are moments throughout Mark’s Gospel where we get a sense that the disciples weren’t quite taking on board what Jesus was saying. The parable of the sower is one of those moments. When the crowds had dispersed the disciples took the opportunity to ask Jesus about the parable.
Again, Jesus gave the disciples the chance to grasp what he was saying.
The Roadside
Jesus described the seed that fell on the network of dried our pathways forming the edge of the farmer’s field. It was impossible for these seeds to survive as they were left exposed on the surface and reduced to bird feed. Jesus compared these seeds to those who hear the word of God but do not truly listen or understand it.
The Rock
When we think of the rocky soil, we may be tempted to picture a field full of rocks, but an experienced farmer would not have scattered seed on soil like this. This soil was more deceptive as, from the surface, it looked like it was perfect for planting. Above ground, the plant would give the appearance that it was flourishing but as the roots moved down through the shallow soil, they would have met a layer of underlying rock. If the focus of our faith centres around what we look like on the outside then this can lead to a heart full of misunderstandings and confusion about who God really is. As a result, we have little to draw on to stay strong during times of trial.
The Thorns
At first glance, the ploughed field would have looked no different to any other soil ready for planting, but hidden away the thorns were waiting to grow. As the healthy plants started to flourish then the thorns crowded around them, competing for nutrients, water and a place in the sun. Christians can look like we have it all together while our hearts are consumed by hidden fear and worry. Before long we are taking more notice of the thorns around us than reaching up to the one who can truly help us grow.
The Fertile Soil
The ideal soil for planting is deep soil, free from weeds, full of nutrients and freshly ploughed. If our hearts are truly prepared and open to listening to God, then our words and actions demonstrate that He is living within us as we grow.
The parable has a clear message about the condition of the heart. A healthy heart, willing to listen and take on board the words of Jesus, will live out God’s Kingdom here on earth.
Something to think about…
Which of the four kinds of soil would best describe the condition of your heart right now?
Kay Moorby
Comments