Hello, God. It's me, Mara.

You know Lord, it is so great to see sunflowers - they sprout in a carefree manner all over the world. Pollinated by bees, the plants spring up on the sides of highways, under bird feeders, and across fields, in meadows, and also in prairies. If we plant the seeds to produce a harvest, however, sunflowers need good soil. Well-drained, slightly acidic, nutrient-rich soil "with organic matter or composed," says the Farmer's Almanac, finally produces tasty sunflower seeds, pure oil, and also a livelihood for hard-working sunflower growers, wrote author Patricia Raybon.

We also need "good soil" for spiritual growth (Luke 8:15). As Jesus taught in His parable of the farmer scattering seed, God's Word can sprout even in rocky or torn soil. It only thrives, however, in the soil of honest, good-hearted people who hear God's word, cling to it, and patiently produce a huge harvest.

Young sunflowers are just as patient in their growth. Following the sun's movement throughout the day, they turn sunward daily in a process called heliotropism. Mature sunflowers are just as deliberate. They turn eastward permanently, warming the face of the flower and increasing visits from pollinator bees. This, in turn, produces a greater harvest.

Patricia also wrote: "As with those who care for sunflowers, we can provide a rich medium for God's Word to grow by clinging to His Word and following after His Son - developing honesty and a good heart for Your Word, dear Lord, to mature us. It is a daily process. May we 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 preserving produce a crop."

Thank You, Lord, for a good example for us to daily follow that is found in Nature.

Love, Mara