Thorny Soil

 Back in the 80s, a Christian writer opined that the biggest threat to the western church was not persecution or want – but abundance, because it would lead to complacency and prioritization of comfort over love.  Was he right?

Matthew 13 ²² As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. ²³ As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it.”

The topics of conversations I have held with people in the UK and USA over the last few weeks have been remarkably consistent, covering:

• Politics – Binary positions without nuance or compromise on Trump, Brexit, Israel / Hamas, Covid, global warming.
• Money – No one has enough.
• Relationships – Resentment, hurt, separation, and social media exhaustion.
• Kids – Dealing with technology, being on the autism spectrum, schools.
• Health issues.

·       Little difference was observed between those who were Christian / non-Christion, old / young, economic status, or the country they live in. Jesus hardly ever came up except in a church setting.

Our priorities are reflected in:

• Relationships shattered by political differences.
• Decisions based solely on economics or on input from a political leader, not scripture.
• Fear and dehumanization of the “other” (race, nationality, state, sports team, party).
• Placing people in boxes with (often derogatory) labels that carry a mountain of baggage.
• Yearning to return to the good old days (but they weren’t that good were they?)

It sure seems that we are in thorny soil.  But how to get out?  Hear and understand the word (v23):

Matthew 6 ³¹ Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ ³² For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. ³³ But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

What are we seeking?  Jesus, or comfort?  It is our choice, and these choices have eternal consequences – not only for ourselves but the people we push away from the gospel.