READING: Matthew 13:1-53, Mark 4:1-34, Luke 8:1-18
“So listen to the parable of the sower. . .”
Matthew 13:18
I love reading about the way that Jesus taught His disciples. I’m sure I’m biased by my own love for teaching, but it’s always good to learn from the Master in whatever we do.
In today’s readings, Jesus spoke the parable of the sower to His disciples and the crowd with them. The story seems fairly clear to us (especially after we’ve also read His explanation), but the disciples didn’t get it when He first told the story: “Then his disciples asked him, ‘What does this parable mean?’” (Luke 8:9). Understanding this parable was apparently imperative, as Jesus rebuked them for their lack of understanding: “Don’t you understand this parable? How then will you understand all of the parables?” (Mark 4:13).
Rather than get frustrated with His non-comprehending students, though, Jesus next took the time to explain the parable. In fact, he explained it illustration by illustration, soil by soil. Modeling good teaching for the rest of us, Jesus did whatever it took to guide his students toward understanding. He was not content with simply relaying information; he instead intended for His listeners to learn and apply His teachings.
Frankly, I’m so often like the disciples that I’m embarrassed to admit it. I read, but don’t always understand. I review the teachings of the Bible, but I don’t always apply them like I should. I’m sometimes that stubborn student who doesn’t listen well.
So, I’m deeply grateful that Jesus just keeps teaching me. Again and again and again.
ACTION STEPS:
- Consider: “What is God teaching me now, and I’m not listening?” Talk to God about this issue.
- Thank Jesus for His teaching patience.
PRAYER: “Jesus, thank You for Your patience with me. I need You to keep teaching me.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Matthew 8:18-34, 9:18-38; Mark 4:35-5:43; Luke 8:22-56; 9:57-62
