"The Parable of the Sower," from the Book of Matthew 13:1-9. 18-23
Jesus told stories to his followers and disciples in ways that only the believers would understand. He knew that some people were not ready to hear the truth of the kingdom from God and he said, "Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand, (Matthew 13:13)
Each time we hear one of Jesus parables, it seems that Jesus is speaking directly to us.
Pastor Sarah mentioned that we live in a farming community. We live in a place where seeds are planted in fertile soil and grown into bountiful crops.
She asked us to think about whether we see ourselves as the soil, seed or sower. Reflecting on who we think we are in this story we tend to jump to thinking that if we are good Christians or that we go to church, we are good sowers, planting seeds on good soil. The parable is straightforward in its message, but are we ready to look in the mirror and reflect on who we really are?
Jesus reminded us that if we hear and understand the message of good soil, then we will produce a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. We are asked to imagine how many people we could help if we are generous with our seeds. Partnering with other churches, not only with agencies and organizations in our own community can help people from around the world who are thirsty, hungry, persecuted and suffering.
History
In 1837 the General Assembly established a global relationship and partnership called The Presbyterian World Mission. The earliest missionaries were sent to Liberia, Monrovia, Pakistan and to work with Native Americans. One hundred and eighty-three years later, PC(USA) continues the work of planting seeds and serving people all over the world. It is through the partnership and generosity of many churches that we come to understand "The Parable of the Sower."
The following message is posted on the PCUSA website:
"Presbyterians do mission in partnership. That means that mission is not something that we do "to them" but an adventure of collaboration and walking alongside our partner churches. When you support international mission through PC(USA) and World Mission, you not only help people in need, but you empower - and grow - our partner churches as well."
If you have time this week, you might like to look up the PC(USA) website and read about all of the programs that are supported by Presbyterian Church donations. Seeds are being planted on fertile soil. Sowers are reaping crops 30, 60 and 100 times more than what was planted. Villages are being fed, and entire regions are healing, all because of the generosity of those seeking salvation.