In one ear and out of the other,” is an expression that could be   applied to most of us, for at least some of the time. Today’s gospel is about the difference between simply  hearing something and really listening. Jesus uses the parable of the sower and the seeds to illustrate the different ways in which God’s word can be received … or not!

Firstly the sower drops seeds on a path only to be eaten by the birds. Jesus is describing those of us who hear the word but neither understands nor even tries to understand it. Next the sower drops seeds on rocky ground and the plants grow quickly but die off because the roots are not nourished. Jesus is describing those of us who receive the word without any real thought or commitment. Without foundation our faith can soon falter when put to the test. Then Jesus describes the seeds which fall among thorns. Sometimes we want to live by Jesus’ teachings but worldly demands and temptation choke our good intentions. Lastly Jesus  praises the good soil which enables the seeds to grow and bear fruit.

The parable of the sower and the seeds is clearly challenging us to be better prepared to receive the seed of the gospel. It is all too easy for us to go through the motions of listening when really not much is going on    between our ears at all. The Bible is a treasure trove of  inspiration but because it was written such a long time ago in words that aren’t always easily understood we are often inclined to switch off. Do we come to church expecting to be bored by the readings or confused and indifferent before one word is even read? How different things might be if we allowed God’s Word to impact our lives.

Listening is more than just opening our ears. Listening is about studying, learning, understanding …and most importantly, turning that understanding into action.

“As the farmer sowed, some seeds fell on the edge of the path……Some fell on rich soil and produced their crop,”