Nurturing

And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold a sower went forth to sow (Matthew 13:3).

If farmers want a good harvest, they have a lot of work to do. Even after they prepare the fields, and plant the seeds, their work is not done. They must keep the area free of weeds, and nurture the tender plants as they poke through the soil. They may even provide water during dry spells and nutrients to encourage growth.

And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprung up, and choked them (Matthew 13:7).

Christians should take note and follow this example. Too many times we plant Gospel seeds, and once they take root so that someone accepts Christ as their Savior, the witness thinks his or her job is done. A new Christian needs nurturing to grow strong in their faith. They need mentoring, so they can also lead others to Christ. Think about what would happen to that field if the farmer planted it and then abandoned it to itself.

But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, and some thiryfold (Matthew 13:8).

We should be examples to new Christians of what it means to live a Christian life and to love as Christ taught us. We should be willing to help them find answers to their questions and provide fellowship and support. A plant left on its own may never mature and bear much fruit, and we don't want that for our Christian friends. Let's make sure the new Christians around us fall on fertile soil and are nurtured.  

________________________________