Week 3, Day 15 - Dirt Matters
Week 3 - Culture is critical
Day 15 - Dirt Matters
Today’s Big Idea: Culture Talk
Key Verse: Matthew 13:23
Passage of the day: Matthew 13:1-23
Thoughts to consider: Culture is everywhere. If you’ve ever heard someone use the phrase, “That’s just how we do things around here…” then you get a picture of the culture you are dealing with. This happens in families, homes, work environments, and even churches. It is impossible to overstate the importance of knowing the culture of which you are a part. Culture trumps vision statements and mission statements. This is why it is important to learn how to cultivate the culture around you. For example, as a church, if we say we are a friendly and welcoming church, but never speak to guests that walk through our doors, then we have allowed the culture to speak louder than our desired statements. If as a person, you say you are a trustworthy person, but you never return phone calls or texts asking for help in times of need, then you are allowing the culture of your heart to speak louder than your desires to be trustworthy. Jesus describes four different types of cultures, or soil, that people live in. Each type of soil represents so much more than just the hearts and minds of people. It represents the culture they are rooted in.
The path or hard soil. This culture is stubborn and impenetrable. The root of this culture is often one of pain and secrets.
The rocky or shallow soil. This culture is generally open to ideas or change but lacks the discipline to follow through. The root of this culture is often selfishness and ego.
The thorny or busy soil. This culture is too busy to adapt and has allowed too much clutter to build in order to find a way to change. The root of this culture is often pride and scarcity.
The good soil. This culture is ripe for planting and change. It is soft (hearted), deep, and clear of clutter. The root of this culture is excitement for the future, preparation for work, and unencumbered by excess.
Take some time and read this parable over and over again. Ask yourself which soil you identify with the most.
