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Mark 4

Jesus addresses His followers. He shares the parable of the sower and the seed. The seed is spread in all directions. It falls on four surfaces: the road, rocky ground, among the thorns, and into the good soil. The seed fails to grow in the first three soils but prospers in the good soil. Jesus later explains the soils represent different hearts. Only one of the four would befit the kingdom. Jesus adds two more parables that teach that growth is possible in swift and powerful ways: the overnight sprout and the large mustard plant. An event at sea tests the personal spiritual growth of the disciples. A great storm comes up and their faith falters. Jesus expects them to grow in faith and eliminate the fear that holds them back. 

Jesus uses parables to challenge the hearer. If we have a heart for Him, these stories transform our lives. If we are not seeking truth, they have little impact. The parable of the sower reinforced Jesus’ teaching: “Many will be called, but few will be chosen.” Some will not listen. Some will hear and then be overcome with fear. Some will hear but let worry and greed rule their lives. The seed, the word of God, is perfect and powerful and can completely transform us. But we must open our hearts, put aside all else, and receive His word deep within us. Even then, faith will be tested by the elements, by storms, and by trials. We must trust in Jesus.

Dear Father, Your grace and love for mankind are abundantly clear in the coming of Jesus. Thank You for sharing the life-giving word with all the world. It is sad to think how many reject Your word or let fear and temptation rob it from their hearts. Please soften hearts in this world and use us to share the life-changing gospel. And Father, please help the truth to sink more deeply into us as well. May we bear fruit for you, face our fears, and stand strong with trust in Jesus during the trials and temptations of life.

Thought Questions:

-       What will you do today because you are striving to be the good soil? How do you keep from becoming like the rocky or thorny soil?

-       Do you believe change can happen in your heart and life? Do you believe that God can do big things through you if you let Him?

-       Are you prepared for your faith to be tested? How will you trust in Jesus when things get scary, hard, or temptation rages around you?