Farming conditions

Matthew 13: 18 - 23

Cares of the world....delight in riches

I am a person who tends toward a more realistic outlook on life. At least I think - I'm being realistic - but sometimes it may be an excuse for pessimism or discouragement!! Anyway, the cares of the world usually weigh heavy on me. And the responsibilities I feel I bear can take up so much inner space that the "word of the kingdom" has no room to flourish. The 'delights' in the other hand are another story - in that they become sticky attachments and also occupy the interior space that should rightly be the dwelling of the Word.

I wonder how many Christians swing to one extreme or the other, often without realizing it. We could even be studying the Word diligently - but not be aware of the dangers of being too 'full', either of cares or of delights, to nurture its growth in us.

There's a lot of encouragement in church to add on many good things to our lives - more service, more programs.......this or that seminar. But at the end of the day, what flourishes? Maybe something does but the roots are not strong because we run to the next thing before tending the young shoot. The longer I am a Christian, the less I believe that programs are really effective. In saying this, I still participate when called upon to help out - but usually I would only feel able to do so, when the program allows room for flexibility, of appreciating the uniqueness of each person.

The good soil has to lie fallow sometimes and not be overworked by driven farmers. The good soil must receive adequate preparation, and sown with the right crop at the right time. The good soil may be likened to the heart that has been prepared by adequate rest, proper discernment and quiet choice........the heart where the Word grows; becomes flesh.