Seeds

To reflect God’s heart to the world around us, we need to know God’s heart and, we believe, God’s heart is most clearly represented in Jesus. In the weeks leading up to Easter, we invite you to explore the life of Jesus by reading the Gospel of John with us. As we delve into the richness of scripture, we’ll utilize the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, which invites us to slow down and posture our hearts to hear from God. With that said, let’s begin with a prayer.

Open your time by reciting these words:

Lord, as I approach scripture, prepare my heart to encounter You in its pages. Quiet the distractions that pull me away and open my eyes to see Your truth. May I encounter these words humbly, with an open mind and a receptive spirit. May my time in Scripture be a sacred encounter that deepens my relationship with You and transforms me into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lectio (Reading)

Take a moment to read John 12:20-50 slowly and attentively. As you read, pay attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you. Allow the text to wash over you, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart.

Jesus replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.” John 12:23-26

Meditatio (Meditation)

In today's passage, we see Jesus talking with a group of Greeks and thinking about why he came. He compares his upcoming death to a seed being planted in the ground. Just like a seed needs to be buried to grow into something new, Jesus needs to die to bring abundant life to those who believe in him. The seed image shows how life can come from death. When you look at a seed, it seems lifeless, but inside it holds the potential for growth and abundance. Similarly, when Jesus died on the cross, it might have looked like the end, but it was actually the start of a new and full life for anyone who trusted in him. Moreover, the metaphor of the seed underscores the universal scope of Jesus' message. Just as a single seed has the power to yield a plentiful harvest, so too does Jesus' sacrifice have the capacity to impact lives from every corner of the world, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries. His offer of salvation isn't restricted by geography or background but is available to all who are open to receiving it.

Take a moment to reflect on the imagery of a seed that we've explored. Think about how a seed undergoes a process of transformation and growth as it surrenders itself to the soil. Reflect on your own life journey and the areas where you desire transformation and renewal.

Contemplatio (Contemplation)

Through his death and resurrection, Jesus shows us how transformation and renewal work. Just as a seed goes through stages of germination and growth, the same happens for those who accept Jesus as their source of life. When we have faith, our hearts soften, and our lives change as we allow the life-giving power of Christ to take root and produce good things in us. The image of a seed highlights the importance of surrender and trust. A seed lets go of its outer shell and allows itself to be nurtured in the soil, leading to growth. Similarly, Jesus surrendered to God's plan, trusting that he would rise again and bring redemption. As followers of Jesus, we're invited to follow his example, surrendering our lives to the transformative love of God.

Take a moment to identify areas in your life where you may be resistant to change or growth. These could be habits, attitudes, fears, or relationships that you hold onto tightly. Surrender these areas to God. Imagine yourself releasing them, like a seed letting go of its protective shell. Surrender your desires, plans, and expectations, trusting that God's plan for your life is far greater than anything you could imagine.

Actio (Action)

As we reflect on this passage, we are confronted with a choice. Will we heed the call to follow Jesus, allowing his words to take root in our hearts and transform our lives? Or will we turn away, clinging to our own desires and ambitions? Just as a seed planted in the ground undergoes a process of transformation before bearing fruit, so too must we allow the message of Jesus to take root in our lives, transforming us from the inside out. May we have the courage to surrender our will to God’s purposes, trusting in His plan even when it leads us through the valley of suffering. And may we walk in the light of Christ, bearing witness to his love and grace in a world in desperate need of redemption.

Take a moment to reflect on Jesus' example of surrender and trust in God's plan. Consider times in your life when you have struggled to trust God fully. What fears or doubts have held you back from surrendering completely? As you contemplate surrender and trust, reaffirm your faith in God's goodness and faithfulness.

Oratio (Prayer)

Close your time by reciting this prayer or lifting up your own:

Heavenly Father, we humbly come before you, seeking your transformative touch. Plant in us the seeds of faith, obedience, and surrender, so that our lives may bear fruit that reflects your kingdom. Guide us to walk in the light of Christ, illuminating the darkness around us, and may our every step bring glory to your name. Amen.