Although we usually think of Biblical parables as the brief “stories” told by Jesus, the Greek word for parables is also rendered “figures of speech.” These include proverbs, sayings, riddles, and the like. At its simplest, a parable is a metaphor or simile drawn from nature or common life. Most parables are “arresting” or captivating, appealing to the hearer by their vividness or strangeness. Often, they are intended to leave the mind of the hearer in sufficient doubt about a precise application, or to tease us into more active thought. Noted Scripture scholar St. Jerome wrote that “parables are intended to move us from where we are, to where Jesus wants us to be.”
There are about 70 different parables in the Gospels. A common metaphor involves seeds, sowers, plants, vines, and trees. When Jesus uses such parable-themes, He often emphasizes the patience of farmers, thus teasing us into a better appreciation of His patience with us. Furthermore, He invites us to be patient with ourselves and with each other. This is not complacency; it is simply the realistic recognition that we are all a work in progress. God has begun a good work in our lives, and even if it is not perfect in this life, God will bring His good work to completion in eternity, in the fullness of His Kingdom.
Let us pray. “O God, we know that only you can love others perfectly. You are just, merciful, patient, holy, and all-good. Yet, you call us to love others as you do. Forgive us when we fail and help us to stand rooted in your love and grace. Through Christ our Lord.”
To read more: https://www.dolr.org/article/jesus-parables-sow-seeds-kingdom
