Scattering
Our tendency when we hear parables is to think of ourselves. In this parable, we look inwardly and begin to think of the type of ‘soil’ we are. Or has the ‘soil’ of my heart been adequately prepared? Or does it need tilling, which sounds kind of painful?
But we should always remember parables are first about God. They give us insight to God’s love, His mercy, His forgiveness. Look back at this parable. Pause a moment on the word ‘scatter’.
What farmer, in their right mind, would throw good seed on rocks, or a hard path, or into a cluster of weeds. It just doesn’t make sense.
But now think of God. He scatters His Word freely everywhere. Almost with total abandon does He send out His Word. Why? Because He knows He has you and I to participate in His creation. We are the people He asks to help till the soil.
Sometimes rocks can be removed and His seed, the word, will fall on good soil. We are the people to uproot the weeds and let His seed fall on good soil. Paths can be changed; they can be made straight and level to prepare the way of the Lord. Then, why shouldn’t God freely scatter His Word everywhere.
Next time you read a parable and think how you are an example of the parable’s theme, ask yourself. Where is God in this parable? Why didn’t I think of Him first?
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen