In Mark 4:1–20 Jesus shared some key characteristics of teachers and learners. The farmer who sowed the seed is like a teacher who imparts truth. All types of soil were given a chance to produce regardless of their quality. In fact, the yields he reaped justified the seed that was wasted. Serving leaders give opportunities to everyone to respond to their vision. They are not discouraged when their acts of generosity and service are rejected. They sow liberally but invest sparingly, focusing primarily on those who respond. People’s hearts are like soils with different levels of receptivity. Some only hear. Others hear and understand. Those who aspire to serving leadership are lifelong learners who put into practice what they see and hear. They multiply what was invested in them. Serving leaders are both invitational and intentional. They invite many but are only intentional with those who sincerely respond.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

KEY QUESTIONS: What happens inside me when the seeds of truth I spread seem to go to waste? How might I sow more liberally? How could I invest more sparingly? How do I discern if someone is sincere? How might I be more intentional with whom I invest in and what I am sowing?