by Barbara Latta
Why do gardeners take such great care to prepare soil before planting?
The proper space is chosen for the right amount of sunshine, furrows are plowed, and fertilizer is applied. Weeds are pulled to prevent choking the precious seeds that are soon sown. Germination success is due to the soil the gardener chooses.
Jesus used this agricultural picture in Mark 4:1-20 to teach us how important it is to prepare our hearts. He told the disciples this example was the key to understanding all His parables. The value placed on the truth of scripture is the determining factor for good growth.
