Anyone who’s known me for any length of time is aware of my love for all things plant related - seeds, starts, flowering and fruiting bushes, vegetables, etc. In ancient Israel, seeds were absolutely foundational for life, serving as the basis for the Israelites’ economy, diet, and spiritual life.
 
Ancient Israel was primarily an agrarian society and as a result the Hebrews relied heavily on grain seeds (especially wheat and barley) for 50-75% of their daily calories. Those who have lived in an environment of scarcity may understand the Hebrews need to safeguard this very important food source found in seeds.
 
Since this ancient culture did not have access to “center pivot” or “boom” irrigation systems, early Israelite agriculture was heavily dependent on seasonal rain, making them vulnerable to crop loss if they did not receive timely rains. Although lower Galilee was lush and fertile, the southern regions were more arid and consequently was a much more difficult area to farm.
 
As a result of this reality, the Hebrews were always on the lookout for agricultural innovations:
 

1. Terracing hillsides - maximized farming land on steep slopes.

2. Building plastered cisterns - to capture and store scarce rainwater for the dry season. The Israelites carved large, bell-shaped reservoirs into the limestone bedrock. The interiors were lined with impermeable plaster to prevent water from seeping away thus providing an ongoing water source for farming and watering livestock.

3. Regenerative land management - fields were left  completely fallow every seventh year (see Exodus 23:10-11) allowing for the soil to rest naturally and recover its fertility. During this “Sabbatical Year” the poor as well as the animals could eat of what the fields naturally produced.

4. And of course, crop rotation to improve soil health, manage nutrients, and suppress pests and weeds.

 
Is it any wonder then that some of Jesus’ parables speak of seeds? Here are a few:

• Matthew 13:1-9 -The Sower

• Matthew 13:24-30 - The Wheat & the Tares

• Mark 4:30-32 - The Mustard Seed

• Mark 4:26-29 - The Growing Seed

 
Pittsboro Christian Church now has three growing boxes and one raised garden bed in the playground area as the result of another completed Eagle Scout project. Why not go out and grow something beautiful and/or edible? What you grow may bring a smile because of the beauty or the deliciousness of the edible.
 
Let’s do ministry together!
 
You are loved,
 
Pastor Karen