Sowing the Seed
Scripture Reading — Matthew 13:1-9
“A farmer went out to sow his seed.” Matthew 13:3
A young Christian was asked by his spiritual director, “With whom have you shared Christ since you first believed?” The new believer said, “I’ve got a lot to learn before I start doing that. Besides, that makes me a bit uncomfortable.”
The director replied, “Do you light a candle to make it more comfortable or to have it give off light?” “To give off light,” came the reply. The questioner proceeded, “And when do you expect it to give off light? After it is half burned or when it is first lit?” “As soon as it is lit,” said the new believer. “Very well then, go and do likewise. You were given light not to make you comfortable but to share that light upon receiving it.”
In Jesus’ parable, the sower was not overly cautious. He simply hoisted a bag of seed to his shoulder and began slinging seed in all directions. The sower did something anyone could do--sling seed around. He was not necessarily picky or precise. But he was persistent.
Evangelism, if properly understood, is something anyone can do. Most of us can befriend an unchurched person, share a Christian book or tape, or invite people to a Christian gathering. Who of us can’t do these things--slinging gospel seed wherever we go? Most pre-Christians are looking for caring concern and a simple explanation, not a theological dissertation.
Lord, we acknowledge that without you we are inadequate. But with you we are more than adequate. May we not waste time and opportunities to shine for you. In Christ, Amen.
About the author — Dan Jongsma
Daniel Jongsma serves as an interim pastor in Fulton, Illinois. He has pastored congregations in Elmhurst and Fulton, Illinois; in Dearborn, Michigan; and in Nashville, Tennessee. Dan also served as a church planter in the Chicago area. He and his wife, Gloria, have three daughters and four grandchildren.
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