Mark 4: 1-20: Jesus taught by using stories, many stories.
To those who can’t see how God’s kingdom works yet,
everything comes in stories, creating readiness, nudging
them toward receptive insight. (The Message)
How blessed we are that Jesus taught by using parables
instead of direct instruction. All the bible stories, but
especially the parables, allow us to approach them slowly,
understanding them a bit more each time we hear them. Like
the seeds in today’s parable of the sower, the stories are
planted in us, and when we are ready, they take root and
began to produce fruit.
Each time we really listen, we are made ready to understand
a story or parable in a richer way. The Scriptures are God’s
living word, relating to us in different ways as our lives
change.
In my spiritual journey I have heard today’s lessons in
various settings: in worship, in college classes, as the basis
for discussions about faith and life in Education for Ministry
(EFM), and in Godly Play where I learn from both my
teaching preparation and the children’s insights. Each time I
encounter the stories there is a new or deeper revealing of
God’s kingdom and my life in it.
During this Lent join me in spending time with God’s stories
so that they may take root in our hearts and bear fruit in us.
Psalm 72; Genesis 42:18-28; 1 Corinthians 5:9-6:8;
Mark 4:1-20
These Lenten meditations were written by the people
of St. Barnabas' for the people of St. Barnabas' as part
of our recognition of the 50th anniversary of the founding
of this church. We hope that you will find them helpful
in your own Lenten devotions.
