RETURN to ME: Reading With the People of God #16ਨਮੂਨਾ

What Grows in the Heart

In today’s readings, we’re invited to consider what’s growing in us—and what isn’t.

In Hosea 9–10, God describes Israel as a once-fruitful vine that has become overgrown with self-interest and idolatry. The nation’s outward prosperity masked a deep spiritual decay. God isn’t interested in hollow rituals or shallow roots—He desires hearts that are faithful and true. The prophet pleads for them to “break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord” (Hosea 10:12 ESV).

In Mark 4, Jesus continues teaching about the kingdom of God—using parables about lamps, seeds, and storms. He reminds us that the kingdom is growing, often in unseen ways. But He also challenges us: Will we have ears to hear? Will we trust Him when the waves rise?

Together, these passages ask us to look inward. What kind of ground is God finding in your life today? What is He calling you to clear away so His Word can take root more deeply?

Let the Spirit search your heart, and trust that even in the quiet or the stormy moments, God is at work—growing something real and lasting in you.