How do you know when you're in the presence of something awe-inspiring? What's the most awe-inspiring thing you've seen recently?
Jesus started his parable by saying, "LISTEN!" in attempt to get everyone's attention. What is that captures your attention?
1. Many of you have heard the Parable of the Sower before - maybe many times. What new insight or deeper understanding did you learn this weekend?
2. Read
Mark 4:18-19 - What kinds of “thorns” do you see in your own life? (worry, busyness, pressure to succeed, screen time, comparison, etc.)
3. Which other parables or teachings of Jesus reinforce the idea of “fruitfulness” or the dangers of distraction? How do they deepen our understanding of this one?
4. Read
Proverbs 2:4-5 How does this wisdom literature interact with our parable today? What do both texts suggest about the nature of wisdom and understanding?
5. The same seed is scattered on all soils. What does this say about the character of the sower (God)? How might this contrast with our own tendencies to “pick and choose” who we share with?
What would it look like this week to create “good soil” in your life?
We're half way through the summer school break. Text BACKPACK to 48099 to participate in providing backpacks and school supplies for kids in the STL area this fall.
Jesus - thank you for loving us the way you do and for how you continuously chase after us. Please help us to notice all the ways you are dropping seeds in our life and to then allow us to absorb what you're sharing. Please help us to slow down, to abide in you, to be planted like trees near the water. Be with us as we go through our week.
AMEN