Second Sunday of Lent

As we continue in Lent there is parable that seems almost tailor made for Lent. It is about gardening. Gardeners know that that seeds grow better in some spots than in others. In the same way, lent can be a very productive time for some people,while others gain little from it. The parable suggests some reasons for this.
   
Jesus describes how a man went out to plant his field. Some of the seed fell on the road where the birds came and ate it. other seed fell among the rocks; even it they started to grow they would soon wither and die. Some fell into soil, but the thorns crowded the good ones out. Other seed fell on fertile ground and produced a rewarding harvest later on. ( Mark 4:1-9)
   
Many of us as we approach the Lenten Season have our appointment books already full and our routines down. Our minds are cluttered in the everyday doings of life. Unless we make a special effort, thoughts of enriching our inner life and nourishing our souls meet the same fate as the seeds. Seeds among the thorns lose out because of our busyness. Rocky soil is our cluttered mind etc... If we do not make the effort the Lenten journey is just another time of year.
   
In gardening terms, we have to put down the hoe for a bit to enjoy the beauty that is growing. In life, we must put away our schedule, the busyness and the clutter and take time for quiet reflection to make our remaining time more productive. Jesus came that we might have abundant life.I know this in my life. It took me a long time to discover Jesus was not talking about material things or jobs but an inner life that supersedes everything. An undercurrent of peace, hope and love that makes our soil fertile. It is said, "today is the first day of the rest of your life." Perhaps this Lenten season can be the beginning of a new style of life, full of purpose, productivity and beauty. Yesterday at men's group one said: this Lenten season I am taking time to see Communion in a deeper and more meaningful light. He has set aside the hecticness of life and decided to focus on what is most important; his relationship with God. 
Hope to see you this morning as we continue our Lenten journey.

Gracious Father I seek Your peace. Help me slow down enough to learn and find the abundance you speak of. Help me Lord to focus on the good and how I can play a roll in Your kingdom. Father, forgive me of my sins and wipe away my transgressions. I pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.