An Acre of Sunflowers

In Harrisonburg, VA, some farmers plant sunflowers and then put up a sign saying “Take as Many as You Want!” It’s amazing what an acre of sunflowers looks like when they are in full bloom.  People from everywhere will come to pick sunflowers. It’s a joy to see this and think about the joy these farmers are sharing with everyone.

Sunflowers grow all over the world.  To grow properly, they need good soil that is well-drained and slightly acidic with organic or composted material.  Farmers know how to make their soil nutrient rich.

We need “good soil” for spiritual growth (Luke 8:15).  Jesus taught in the parable of the farmer sowing seeds that seeds can sprout on rocky soil but they only thrive on “good” soil.  The same is true with us as Christians. We can be scattered anywhere, but if we are to thrive, we must be grounded in the word and be around people who love Jesus and seek His ways.  

Young sunflowers are patient in their growth.  They follow the sun’s movement through the day and this turning toward the sun is called heliotropism. Mature sunflowers turn eastward permanently, warming the face of the flower and increasing visits from pollinator bees. This produces a greater harvest.

The lesson of the sunflower is a great one for each of us.  We need to turn to the “Son” and be faithful in following Jesus in all that we do.  God’s Word will direct us and we will mature as we follow the example of Jesus.  It’s a daily process if we want to follow the “Son” and grow!

Luke 8:15: The seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.