John 12:24New International Version (NIV)
24 Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.
If a seed remains on the shelf, it suffers no distress. It also won’t become anything other than the seed it already is. It doesn’t give up anything but it doesn’t gain anything either. There is always a sacrifice that needs to be made. If a seed is planted, it has to be placed in the dark place which loses all comfort. There are people walking on top of it. It is in the dark and the dirt. It appears as if it had died. One seed, once planted, can yield a plant that will yield 50-100 seeds so it can multiply immensely; but only if it sacrifices itself. Many people want the fruits but are not willing to go through the process. The process is important!
Jesus was in Bethany several days before Passover. As was His custom, He was teaching His disciples. Philip and Andrew asked Him if he would speak to some Greeks who requested to speak with Him. His answer did not exactly fit the question. It seems His speaking with them would plant seeds that would yield a great harvest. Are you speaking with people and planting seeds?
Jesus is the picture of a seed dying to itself and giving life to so many. He is the picture of the need for the perfect sacrifice to cover our sin. He was placed in the ground where he remained for three days. Then, he rose again showing the seed would blossom into many more seeds. The man who loves his life will lose it and the one who loses his life will keep it for eternal life. The seed of eternal life was planted more than two thousand years ago and still yields new life daily. What will He yield in you today?
Lord, thank You for Your sacrifice that is still producing new life to this day. Teach us to love You more than life itself and, in so doing, gain glory for You and eternal life for us. Also, let our life bring others to saving grace in You. In Your name we pray!