The prophets all had a common message. We see the crux of it at the beginning of today’s first reading from Jeremiah 3. “Return, rebellious children, says the Lord, for I am your Master.” In today’s Gospel reading from Matthew 13, Jesus explains the parable of the sower.
When I read about the different kinds of soil in this parable, I think to myself that, at one time or another during my life, I have been each of these soil types. Early in my life the seeds were sown. But I fell into the ways of the world; Satan had come and stolen away what had been sown. I recall brief flirtations with Christ, which invariably ended with some usually minor setback. To this day I still struggle with worldly anxiety and have to fight mightily not to let them choke the word. And finally, there are times when I truly feel as though I am following God’s call for my life.
In retrospect, I think that most Christians can see themselves in each of the soil types at different times of their lives. But what about today? What about right now? If you had to take the “Soil Test” at this moment, where would you be? If you don’t find yourself in the rich soil, are there steps you can take to get there? Let’s pray about that today.
Father, we want our lives to be that rich soil, where your word grows and blossoms. Show us today how we may grow closer to you, that we may bear much fruit for the Kingdom. Amen.
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