Matthew 13:1-13
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
This passage is the first of several parables that Matthew includes in his Gospel account. We’ll focus on the first half of this parable today. Read Matthew 13:1-3 imagining yourself in the front row of the crowd by the shore listening attentively to Jesus.
Parables are stories Jesus tells to illustrate a central truth, and when we are listening deeply the parables of Jesus can lead us on a journey of revelation and transformation.
Think about the story you “heard” Jesus tell: the farmer scattering seeds on the footpath, the shallow soil, and the thorny soil. Picture the birds eating seeds on the footpath, the sun wilting the new growth in the shallow soil, the plants in the thorny soil being choked out by weeds.
Sit with these images for a while to see if there are any connections with your current circumstances.
When you are ready, picture the plants thriving in the fertile soil. Share any thoughts or feelings with Jesus.
Read Matthew 13:1-13 again focusing on the question of the disciples and Jesus’ answer.
In an age of distraction many of us have lost the ability to notice. We look at all the incoming stimuli around us, but we don’t really see or try to make sense of it. We hear the non-stop noise of our busy world, but we don’t really hear, and we certainly don’t take the time to contemplate and understand what we are hearing.
Get quiet for a moment and just listen. As you listen, focus in on one sound and try to identify the source. Now imagine that Jesus is listening with you. Talk and listen to Jesus about what you are hearing letting your conversation with him unfold naturally.
What have you heard from Jesus today that you need to remember?
How will you take action on what you believe Jesus has said to you?
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