(Matthew 13:3–9, 18–23)

While preparing to lead a women’s retreat up in New Hampshire – a gathering themed around sunflowers – I’ve found that God has just as much to show me about my own heart as He does about the beautiful plants we’re learning from. Sunflowers may be known for their bright faces and tall, strong stems, but their growth begins in a place we cannot see: the soil. What happens beneath the surface tells a story of healing, preparation, and hope.

Before a sunflower ever blooms, its roots begin a remarkable work called phytoremediation. Sunflowers do not simply grow in soil – they restore it. Their roots draw toxins from the earth, purifying what has been damaged so it can sustain life again. Without healthy soil, there is no nourishment. Without nourishment, there is no growth.

In Matthew 13, Jesus teaches that our hearts are like soil receiving seed. The seed represents the Word of God, but the condition of the soil determines whether that word takes root and flourishes.

He describes four kinds of soil:

• The hard-packed path
Where the Word cannot penetrate, and the enemy snatches it away

• The rocky soil
Where faith springs up quickly but withers under pressure because roots are shallow

• The thorny soil
Where growth begins but is choked by worry, distractions, and the pull of the world

• The good soil
Where the Word is received, roots grow deep, and fruit multiplies

If you’re like me, different parts of your heart may look like each one – all at the same time.

There may be a place where trust in God is thriving… and another where old wounds have hardened hope.
A space where faith is deep and steady… and another where anxiety crowds out peace.

Jesus isn’t asking YOU to fix the soil. He is asking for permission to tend it.

As I’ve reflected, I’ve realized that this healing work isn’t something I can force. Just as a plant cannot fix its own soil, I cannot heal my own heart. But Jesus sees what has been buried – the hurt, the fear, the doubt – and He gently begins to cleanse and restore. He is the One who turns fallow ground into fertile ground.

Even when we feel hidden or stuck, much like a seed buried underground, growth is already happening beneath the surface. Jesus is preparing the soil. He is pulling up what doesn’t belong. He is making room for new roots to form.

And as that soil becomes healthy and whole, His Word can take deeper root in us. Our faith steadies. Our love expands. Our lives begin to reflect His goodness – quietly at first, then beautifully and unmistakably.

This season of preparing for the retreat has reminded me that fruitfulness begins in hidden places. The more space I give Jesus to tend the soil of my heart, the more I trust that He is growing something good – even when I can’t see it yet.

Reflect on the following:

• What part of your heart’s soil might Jesus be tending right now?
• Where has worry, hurt, or distraction crowded out space for God’s Word?
• What might it look like to invite Him to gently prepare the soil for new growth?

Pray with me:

Jesus, Gardener of my soul, thank You for seeing the places in me that need Your healing. Break up what has grown hard. Pull out what chokes Your life in me. Nourish what is good and ready to grow. Prepare my heart to receive Your Word fully and bear fruit that lasts. Amen.