Read: Luke 8:14 | Listen: Luke 8

The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches, and pleasures. Luke 8:14 

Jesus turns his attention to soil that has signs of life. Roots have taken hold, and the plant is growing. Rocks have been removed. The soil is soft. Yet, weeds grow alongside the young plant. These seemingly harmless neighbors suffocate the plant, causing it to die. The disciples press Jesus for an explanation. He tells them that the soil represents the person who hears God’s Word, but is carried away by life’s worries, riches, and pleasures. These weeds represent valid concerns for Jesus’s audience. Questions about burdensome Roman taxes. The fear of a disease, like leprosy. They included life’s great joys, like a wedding in Cana or the birth of a child. Jesus knows that the stuff of life will compete for the throne of their hearts. 

We, too, battle weeds that threaten to choke our faith. As a gardener tends to his plot, we need to tend daily to the competition happening in our hearts. Life’s worries endlessly compete for our attention. Do we pursue an opportunity or not? Should we get married? Which school should we attend? Riches and pleasures can be exciting. Vacation with the family. New flooring in the house. These are good things! However, when they keep us from God’s Word, they become ultimate things, an idol. We must be vigilant to uproot the weeds in our lives. Doing so allows our faith to grow toward maturity. 

TODAY: Take a moment to think over the past week and what things consumed your time, energy, and attention. Make a list in your journal or on your mobile device. Invite Jesus into each thing you named.