A Bible Reading
A farmer went out to plant his seed. As he scattered it across his field, some seed fell on a footpath, where it was stepped on, and the birds ate it. Other seed fell among rocks. It began to grow, but the plant soon wilted and died for lack of moisture. Other seed fell among thorns that grew up with it and choked out the tender plants. Still other seed fell on fertile soil. This seed grew and produced a crop that was a hundred times as much as had been planted. When he had said this, he called out, ‘Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand’. (Luke 8: 5-8)
A Thought
After 26 years in our house, last week we had a line of trees removed. They were Leylandii which blocked our view and deprived adjoining vegetation of water. Our contractor cut down the trees, ground the stumps, removed the roots and raked over the ground.
We were delighted and rushed to progress our re-use of the new space. Saplings arrived as ordered, but our contractor advised that the ground needs time to settle before anything should be planted. Wild-flower seeds arrived as ordered, but the instructions advised sowing only from September onwards. Disappointment set in. We will need to spend our time removing stones and weeds, and rolling the area, while we wait for the favourable environment in which our big plans can be executed.
One of my more regular bible studies is to watch Joyce Meyer (9.30am weekdays on Freeview Channel 65). She has been talking recently about how some Christians become disappointed that they have not been ‘called’ to a greater task.
In our present predicament, we may not be a scientist developing vaccine or a key front-line worker. Instead, we are called to be honest and helpful in our everyday lives. Simpler matters like obeying the rules on social distancing, avoiding unnecessary outings, and providing support to our neighbours.
Joyce says that being an honest and helpful role model in our community is a Christian calling in-itself. The little things matter, and without the discipline provided by such preparation we would find ourselves unfit to recognise or succeed in any future callings that God has planned for us.
Good soil does not present itself. It needs to be tended and nurtured to bring it into and maintain this condition. We should not assume that simply because we have heard the Word, we have become fertile soil. Being active is necessary to prepare and maintain our relationship with God and with others.
A time may come when we are asked by God to step forward to a different challenge. In the meantime, we are called to focus on the little things that benefit our neighbours and our community.
A Prayer
Dear Lord, we thank you for the gift of eternal life to those who believe in you.
We recognise that you call us to be your hands and feet on earth.
We ask for humility to undertake the simple tasks that need doing, and for commitment to do them well.
So that we may be worthy ambassadors, modelling your command to love and serve others.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
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