Later, when Jesus was alone with the twelve disciples and with the others who were gathered around, they asked him what the parables meant. (Mark 4:10 NLT)

One of Jesus’ most well known parables was the story of a man who sowed seed. Some seed fell by the wayside, where it was immediately devoured by birds. Some seed fell on stony ground, where it had initial growth, but was scorched because of it’s shallow root system. Some fell among weeds, which choked out the word. And some fell on good soil, and was productive and fruitful.

Jesus told this story to a large crowd of people, gather at the sea. However, He did not tell the crowd the meaning of the parable. He simply told them the story and let them identify their own conclusion and application. It was only when His disciples, and those who followed Him, asked for the meaning of the parable that Jesus told them what it meant.

There are truths that cannot be caught in a crowd.

Deeper levels of understanding come when we pursue Jesus, asking Him for greater insight. General instructions come to the crowds, but specific revelation and personal application comes only when we “seek Him with our whole heart.” This type of wisdom only comes through a personal, intimate, ongoing relationship with Jesus.

The disciples tapped into the deep waters of Jesus’ wisdom, the results of which were life changing. The good news is that Jesus is always ready and willing to reveal deep wisdom to us when we ask.

Father,

I don’t want to just be a passive listener, lost in a crowd. I choose to actively pursue You, to spend time with You each day, to listen to Your words, and seek for the deep wisdom that You promise to those who seek You diligently.

Your Word promises that I will KNOW the truth, and that truth will set me free!

In Jesus’ name, amen.