The “sower” explained.—4. The seed in good ground

Of teaching by parables. The Sower explained.

(The Gospel History, Section 50)

And he that was sown upon the good ground, this is he that in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, understandeth it and holdeth it fast; who verily beareth fruit with patience, and bringeth forth, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.

The “sower” explained.—4. The seed in good ground

(The Saviour of the World, Vol III Book II Poem XV)

There was a man who heard and thought;
Who in himself conditions brought
To foster that most precious seed;
His honest heart with reverent heed
Pondered the Word; he knew had come,
With that blest Word, of life—the sum!

Now, good his heart as it was true:
Debased affections might not sue
Him from his part the Best had found:
His love, his service, gathered round
That living Word—his constant praise,
Guide, Light and Comfort of his days!

No sudden growth marked this man’s state,
Nor went he forth with joy elate
As one had found the good of life,
For whom no more are cares and strife.

Poor man, he waited many a day
Till plant of grace should fruit display;
A withered blade, an empty ear
Was all did to his sight appear!
Patient he waited still; said he,
“My punishment no fruit to see!”

But what is this? Unworthy seems
The life that he so fruitless deems;
This man, he knows, bears sixtyfold,
That other, thirty;—sure, so cold
And barren soil for that blessed seed,—
His Lord’s reproach is all his meed!

The Master walks abroad and sees
His drooping servant on his knees;
What weighs him down? A hundredfold
Of heavy fruit he scarce can hold!
See you, the seed had grown, had borne
Full-ear the while the man did mourn!

St. Matthew xiii. 23.
St. Mark iv. 20.
St. Luke viii. 15.