Lent Day 18: "Come follow me" - sowing seed on good soil

The appointment of 12 disciples resonates through history. Mark recalls their names - and many characteristics. What always surprises me is that Judas - who would betray Jesus - was chosen and did miracles alongside of all the others.

From the start, the religious and political leaders did not know what to make of Jesus. They were confused, condemning, and spoke against him. Jesus explained his work and how God was willing to forgive everything except the "sin against the Holy Spirit".

What is the unforgivable sin? When the Spirit draws people to God, we can refuse him - which means that we never come to God for reconciliation.

Mark 3:13-35
Mark 4:1-34

The claims of his family and friends did not deter Jesus from his mission. He stayed focused on what God asked him to do. Am I as deliberate in doing only what God asks of me?

How is the good seed received in my heart? Do I understand what God is saying through Jesus? (I can ask God for understanding, just as Jesus' disciples did.)

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