First Week of Lent – Wednesday
From Presbyterian Outlook Lenten Devotions
LUKE 8:1-8 –
1 Soon afterwards he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, 2 as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 and Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their resources. 4 When a great crowd gathered and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: 5 “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell on the path and was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. 6 Some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered for lack of moisture. 7 Some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. 8 Some fell into good soil, and when it grew, it produced a hundredfold.” As he said this, he called out, “Let anyone with ears to hear listen!”
As Jesus travels with the twelve and a group of women who provide for them, he proclaims the word through parables. He uses metaphors well known to his hearers. Stories of seeds, birds, rocks and common things become instruments by which Jesus brings the kingdom of God near. Today, notice everyday objects that tell of the work of God in the world and in your life. Make a list of the common items you noticed that spoke to you of God’s word.
God of stars and sand, sequoias and cells, as we go about our work and chores, our rest and routines, reveal to us your word, working for good in the world and in us. As we sow the seeds of the gospel, give us ears to hear the rocks shouting their praise, eyes to see the little children leading the way and the faith to trust that you will bring a plentiful harvest. Amen.
