Some people have a green thumb, some do not. I am in the “not” category. It’s not that hard, gardening. I am aware of the benefits: good exercise, fresh air, satisfaction of seeing the blooms and colors, working the soil. AAHHHH – there it is – working the soil. Jesus’ parables mention everyday examples that are easy to relate to, yet hard to understand the deeper meaning at times. The disciples (especially in Mark) struggle to grasp the concepts Jesus is trying to elucidate. Fishing. Farming. Sowing. Planting. Occasionally, I have thought in my life, “would I be a better Christian if I fished and gardened? Would that bring me closer to the heart of God?”

Working the soil. This metaphor is used very effectively in the language of Natural Church Development. Fruitfulness (Matthew 7:16-17). Some plants and vegetables don’t need to be planted as deeply as others. Even I know that much about gardening!  As Christians, we keep working the soil, nurturing it, watering, cultivating. If our plant or crop fails, we have learned something in the effort. Weeds and wheat. The sower. Even in 21st century, our role as custodians or stewards of the earth goes on. Furthermore, the illustration applies perfectly to our being disciples. Seeking the lost. Inviting them to experience our JOYful hearts of good soil.

Yes, I know that I tend to write to my own congregation, but I hope ALL of you reading this will take heart, take comfort in knowing that we plant and water, then watch God give the growth. He does so according to His own purpose, His own will, His own time. Please do not take the “no” from the one you invite personally and consider yourself a failure. God may be saying, “not you, not yet.” There are always other fish; a seemingly endless supply. Same with seeds. Green thumb or not, God loves you unconditionally.

Pastor Art