In a Bible study group we have been looking at the “Parable
of the Sower,” from the book of Mark. In this parable Jesus explained the
effect of God’s message to mankind and likened it to seed sown on different
types of soil. I think we all understand the concept of the benefits of sowing
seed on good ground. This brings to mind the thought that when a person makes a
decision for Christ and their life has been rocky with difficult ground their
heart may be much the same and they will need a lot of support as they learn
from God’s Holy Spirit. I think the
biggest impact for my learning was the discussion regarding those who will not
listen and/or turn from God despite having heard the message.
As I read scripture, I find myself pondering the
fact that the religious leaders of Jesus’ day should have understood his
teachings. They claimed to be experts and certainly devoted themselves to study
of scripture. Yet, the day came when they stood before the Lord and had trouble
understanding his words; and many refused to understand; they turned away. Apparently
it was as if they were blind or asleep. We know this was prophesied: We read
about it in the book of Isaiah and Jesus referred to that very text. Jesus also
explained the heartbreaking result of a stubborn and willful heart. Let’s just
look at the definition of ‘willful.” It is “having or showing a stubborn and
determined intention to do as one wants regardless of the consequences or
effects.” This is obviously not a good state to be in and it seems so sad to think
this was the condition of several of the religious leaders.
We read in the Gospel of Mark Jesus’ words regarding
his teaching (in particular here, The Parable of the Sower). “And he said to
them, he that has ears to hear, let him hear!” How beautiful those words are!
God wants us to have understanding! The only thing that would prevent us from
hearing with understanding is the condition we intentionally or
unintentionally put ourselves in. And yet, we see God’s patience with us at
every turn. It is as if he is saying “Okay, let’s try this again. .” I think we
have all run across a scripture or a message successive times, and realized
there is something of importance there for our life which God wants to make us
aware of.
I watch a television show called “Precepts for Life”
taught by Kay Arthur. She is an amazing teacher of the gospel. She once talked
about a man who served in ministry under a strict, burdensome teaching. He had
been taught that he had to work excessively hard in order to maintain God’s
favor. He continued on with his ministry, but without a sense of joy he had
hoped to experience. One day as he read scripture he came across Paul’s
description of righteousness as a gift. Now, this young man had read this
scripture many times before, but this was the first time he read it with understanding.
The Holy Spirit had been able to bring the understanding to him and it changed
his life.
Again, we can feel greatly encouraged, because we
know of God’s love and mercy for everyone. We can pray for our own understanding
and pray for others. Let’s go to the Book of Psalms: “Blessed is the man that
walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor
sits in the seat of the scornful, but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and in his law does he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree
planted by the rivers of water that brings forth fruit in his season, his leaf
also shall not wither and whatever he does shall prosper”(Psalm 1). Very
powerful is the word of God! Of course, this psalm (in its entirety which I did
not copy here) describes two paths. The way of the righteous and the way of the
ungodly. And in this fallen world it may look as though the way of the ungodly
is flourishing, but ultimately that way will perish. But certainly, even those
who have chosen that way can turn and come into agreement with the one true God
and receive salvation.
God’s Holy Spirit has been able to reach the understanding
of so many people! Even a young man who is the son of a leader of the terrorist
group Hammas. This young man has become a Christian and has a tremendous
testimony.
And so, we look for our answers where we can find
them. When Mary went to the empty tomb she was asked by an angel “Why do you
look for the living among the dead?” I think we can look at our lives and apply
that very question. We do not need to look to the world for our answers. The
spirit of the world does not hold meaningful answers for us as Christians. Our
life is in Christ.
Let’s go back to Psalms (33) and give praise to the
God of creation: Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous; for praise is fitting
for the upright.” And jumping down a few verses: “Our soul waits for the Lord,
he is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we
have trusted in his holy name. Let your mercy O Lord be upon us, according as
we hope in you..
Amen
