The parable of the sower in Mark 4:1-9 plants seeds today. Parables
move beyond moralizing and entertainment. They teach us vital truth
for living. Unlike today, during Jesus’ ministry planting was done by
hand and seed scattered by hand over the small fields. As the seed hit the
ground, the seed scattered in all directions. The seeds’ final outcome
sometimes was contingent upon its final resting place. Some fell along
paths and the birds of the air devoured it. Some fell into stony ground.
Growth was immediate but the lack of depth of the soil caused the plant
to die. We live in a city where there is really lack of depth literally and
figuratively. We have no soil and the plant life suffers. The lack of rain
stands as the second factor in the loss of the plants. This city saps the
spiritual moisture from the believer. The amount of activities and
demands along with the 24/7/365 leaves the spiritual plant struggling
to find roots to live. By the grace of God, Living Springs has been
blessed with more than 20 adult baptisms. How have these new
converts to Christ faired? How many have thrived? Have secular
weeds grown up around them and choked their faith?
With sadness, we attempt to strengthen the faith of the “new
born Christians” while encouraging them to worship regularly as
we provide opportunities for discipleship and growth. The tug of
war continues as they are tempted to revert to their former lives
away from Christ and only receive an inoculation. Their growth
is minimal and they lose their enthusiasm.
On the other hand, many “newborns” have matured and
moved forward. They still have to contend with the scorching
heat and the weeds attempting to choke them. Please carefully
read this lesson and ask the Spirit to lead you beyond
where you are now to the fullness of Christ.
