My fascination with Parables probably comes from the fact that I have heard the same Parable be taught in a dozen ways. I am fascinated with the words of our Messiah. It's through Parables we probably can imagine the disciples all in tuned and figuring out what Jesus is trying to say (or not say), not in their individual life (individualism did not exist like it does in America), but it's implications for their community, and Church. I'm eager to see if these Parables can work on our collective souls like it has on countless readers before us.
Mark 4:1-20 “The Bad Soil”
Soil that gives the seed no opportunity to sprout
Soil that does not allow deep roots
Soil that chokes the seed after it has grown, before it can yield fruit.
Parables point to a reality that is not always a literal statement of facts. Parables are meant to combine elements of clarity and hiddenness. Those who accept the Parables as teachings do so in knowing that Jesus came to discuss a new reality while those who are hostile to Jesus find parables unusual and offensive. Parables become a proclamation for both insiders and outsiders of the Word made flesh. Here is some rambling notes of the parable in Mark 4:1-20. Maybe this provides some clarity, confusion, and faith development. That’s the beauty of parabolic teaching.
(1-8) True discipleship understands that faith is not a quick fix to hardships or solutions to unanswered questions in life. People need to understand that faith does not offer comfort and security but sacrifice and discomfort. Many people don't realize this, but their lives have been taken over by demands of success rather than devotion to their God.
(9-12) Discouragement from Life-Long Christians!! What have we done wrong in bringing up our generations? Frustration is understandable, especially in today's world. The Word, which became flesh, the gospel, died for a frustrating people. Even Jesus did not connect with all those who heard his message.
(13-20) Faith, Parables, and Riddles seem to relate. People can get frustrated with parables and never understand them or take pleasure in them. Sometimes our faith journey is like that. A good example is people who are yearning for a covenantal relationship with God that find religious language and practice frustrating and meaningless. It's with these people we strive even harder to connect with and show the love of Christ. Parabolic teaching is not always about finding answers but it’s learning how to wrestle in our faith. Jacob did (Gen 32:22ff), why can’t we?
Prayer: God, bless us in times of confusion and lack of clarity. In these times we ask not for answers, but an opportunity to grow in our discipleship and faith journey with you.
Mic Biesboer
Stephenville, Texas
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