The Seeds at Masada
Although Masada does not appear in the Bible, the fortress has a deep significance for the Jewish nation. It was the site of an historic event around 73 – 74 AD. At the end of the First Jewish-Roman War, a group of Jews was held under siege at Masada by Roman soldiers. Masada is on the top of a mountain, and today most sightseers take a cable car to the top. Masada is barren, so once on top, you can catch sight of anyone climbing up.
I have been there several times and have always been amazed at this fortress that was built around 30 BC. It originally served as the palace and fortification of Herod the Great and sprawls over three rock terraces and a Roman-style bath house with mosaic floors.
While excavating, archaeologists found ancient seeds. To see if they would germinate, the researchers planted them and, to their surprise, plants came forth. Jesus talked a lot about seed planting, often likening the sowing of seed to the spreading of “the word.” (Mark 4:15) Our job is to sow the gospel – to tell others about Jesus: “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” (Mark 16:15)
The parables of Jesus are recorded in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke). Jesus spoke in parables so His people could understand more readily. He said, “This is why I speak to them in parables: ‘Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.’” (Matthew 13:11-13)
Just as some of the seeds found at Masada sprouted, God works through us to share our faith with others. We never know if the word we share will sprout and live, but we are encouraged to sow the Good News everywhere we go. Our hope is that it will be received by someone who will “accept it and produce a crop.” (Mark 4:20)
Prayer – Dear Lord, give me the courage and strength to share Jesus will everyone I meet. Amen.
Mark 4:20 – “Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the Word, accept it, and produce a crop.”
By the Rev. Tommy Herndon
Images: Andrea Rapuzzi, Kelly Repreza & Daniel Hajdacki, courtesy of Unsplash