In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus describes a farmer sowing seeds across different types of ground. The focus is usually on the earth the seeds fall on – the path, the rocky ground, among thorns, and the good soil. But let’s consider the sower himself. His act of sowing was one of faith – an act of spreading the word without knowing where each seed would land or how it would grow.
The Sower’s Faith
The sower’s task was to scatter the seeds broadly, not to worry about where each would fall. This parable encourages us to act similarly with our faith. Sharing the Gospel can feel intimidating; we worry about saying the right words or fear negative reactions. Yet, the sower’s message is simple: our job is to sow, not to judge the soil or the seed.
A littleJesus
Take an everyday act of faith, as simple as carrying a “little” Jesus in your pocket, ready to leave behind in public – on a bench, at a restaurant, or anywhere else he’ll fit (so…anywhere!). These little figures can serve not only as seeds of faith for others but also as a personal reminder of your faith:
- Just sow: Just like the sower, you’re not tasked with controlling the outcome; you can’t. Your role is merely to plant the seed. The act of carrying these figures transforms you too; it’s a constant reminder that God is always with us, shaping us into His disciples.
- Keep it Simple: This approach removes the pressure of complex evangelism. There’s no need for eloquent speeches or theological debates. A littleJesus can be a silent ambassador of faith, while also reinforcing your own faith each time you reach into your pocket or look for a place to leave it behind.
- Potential Impact: If faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains, what might a littleJesus accomplish? It might spark curiosity, lead someone to ask questions, or even comfort someone in a moment of need. For you, each seed planted can be a step in your spiritual journey, deepening your connection to Christ.
Encouragement to Sow
- Don’t Overthink: You don’t have to be a theologian to share faith. Sometimes, the smallest gesture can have profound impacts for both you and the recipient.
- Community and Connection: Your act might connect with someone else’s journey, leading to conversations, shared faith, or even community building. Meanwhile, it keeps you mindful of living out your faith daily.
Join the Journey
We invite you to participate in this small act of faith. Carry your littleJesus with you, let it be a physical reminder of God’s presence, and look for places to leave them behind. It’s not just about the immediate reaction or the type of ground but about the act of faith itself and how it changes us as sowers. What might seem like a small seed could, in God’s timing, grow into something extraordinary.