What kind of soil are you?

TODAY'S READING: Matthew 13:1-9,18-23
This is quite possibly one of the most convicting parables Jesus tells. Although just about everything Jesus says challenges me, there is something about this lesson.
As I look at the four different types of soil Jesus speaks of, I unfortunately see more of the first three in my life than the last one. Let me share a little bit of my heart with you today.
Sometimes I fail to understand what God is trying to say to me. I read the Scriptures, I experience life, and I am more concerned about what I think than what God ultimately has to say. The problem is not God's explanation, it's my presuppositions. In a sense we all want God on our terms. We hear God, but do we really understand Him? I know that I struggle with that.
But there are times that I understand. However, it must go beyond understanding. There must be growth. This is where I find myself like the second soil at times. I am joyful for what God has done for me, but so often I become comfortable. I find joy in being where I am. I don't want to be uncomfortable and have to grow. I don't always want God's roots to dig deeper in my life. If I can keep it shallow I don't have to change the areas of my life where I like it.
Just in case we improve in those two areas, Satan has a plan "C." We may understand God and we may even let His roots start to go deeper. Well, then we fall pray to getting to attached to this world. I can engage in Bible study and pray and get all "spiritual." But am I willing to let the rubber meet the road? This is where Satan often distracts me. Sure, I want to help that person in need, but I really want that new book. Yeah, there are people starving in Africa (or even Pontiac), but Famous Dave's has great ribs. I would love to give more to support missions, but how could I live without cable TV or high-speed internet. Have I stepped on your toes yet? I am stomping on mine.
Then we get to the last soil. How many of us have brought thirty people to Jesus? Sixty? A hundred? Who among us has given more to the church than we have asked for? Do we come on Sundays hoping to be filled or wanting to be emptied? Is this "Jesus thing" ultimately about me or about others? I often fail miserably here. I struggle with wanting Christianity on my terms that makes me feel good about myself. I want to walk away from an encounter with Jesus feeling happy instead of fulfilled. Served as opposed to having served.
OK, so maybe you saw more of me than you wanted to today, but God is working hard on me. I just know that I am far short of what God wants me to be. But in the midst of frustration and disappointment with myself, I find comfort in knowing I serve a living God who is both patient and loving. Merciful and kind. And while my God is more than likely frustrated with me as much as I am, He also reaches out His hand in the person of Jesus and says, "Follow me!"

shine!
Jason