Begin with 2 minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Earlier this week I talked about a point in my life when I was far from God because I was chasing business and work. It was extremely stressful. I know now that this was because my relationship with God was not there. I had pushed Him away. Wasn’t doing any quiet time. No reading scripture. I prayed a little bit, but if I’m honest, my heart was not there. It wasn’t receptive. Later in that story, I came home. I was with my newborn baby. I was still. I may not have been physically rested but in my time being still, I found the state of my heart was different. I began quiet times and reading my bible again. My heart became receptive because I was wrestling with God over my hurt. Through this time in my life, I was able to allow God to work in me again. And as a result of that, I was able to become an active participant in the growth of God’s kingdom again.

In Matthew 13, one of the parables Jesus shares is the Parable of the Sower, where seeds are scattered onto different types of soil, representing the varied responses to God's word. Some hearts receive the Word with joy but later fall away due to trials or distractions. Others receive the Word superficially, only to have it choked by the cares of the world. But some receive the Word with open and receptive hearts, producing a fruitful harvest.

These parables challenge us to consider our own response to the gospel. Are we like the fertile soil, eagerly receiving God's Word and allowing it to take root in our lives? Or are we allowing the cares and distractions of the world to choke out the truth? Are we actively participating in the growth of God's kingdom, trusting that even our small acts of faithfulness can lead to significant impact?

As we reflect on the Parables of the Kingdom, let us examine our hearts and attitudes toward the Word of God. May we cultivate hearts that are receptive to His truth, allowing it to transform us from the inside out. And may we actively participate in the growth of God's Kingdom, sowing seeds of faith and love wherever we go.

Take 2 minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Is your heart receptive to the call of the Gospel?
• What changes do you need to make in your life to once again have your heart in the right place?
• If you've never surrendered your life to the Lord and feel God calling you to Him, you can give Him your everything today. If you have questions, please reach out to our House Church Pastor or Campus Pastor.