He Told Them a Parable
A story is told of a man who had inherited some land from his father, who had inherited it from his grandfather. The man decided to build a house and make the land his home. He worked by himself, and then with his sons when they were old enough, for 20 years. Clearing land, making the ground level, laying the foundation, cultivating the landscape. He only did as much as he could pay for at any one time, sometimes working overtime or extra jobs to have enough for the next phase of his project. The structure went up, walls followed with a roof. Over the years, the interior walls were finished, counter tops and cabinets, stone all around the fireplace, colors on the walls. He lived in the house for many years, gradually perfecting the house, tending the land, walking through the woods with his grandchildren.
Then one day the man died. It was discovered that he had no savings – he had spent all he had on his home. His last will merely said, “Leave my land to the son who will make the best use of it.” So, the executor called all the sons around the table and asked them to describe what they would do with the land.
The oldest son said that real estate prices had skyrocketed in the region. He would devide the land into plots and sell them to developers. He would stand to make millions, which he could then share with the other brothers.
The middle son said that his father’s vision was perfect the way it was. He would move his family in and work the land, keeping to himself, and preserving the family’s tie to the inherited land.
The youngest son considered the words of his brothers and said, “Our Father did not intend the land for selfish gain. Nor did he think it wise to hide his land, for he invited all sorts of people to his house to spend time with him as a friend. Therefore, I would build additional houses on either side and invite many people to live here and continue the work of our father.”
The executor said, “To you I will give the land.”
Comment by Becky Ferraro
Brian, that is a great parable, but could you please explain it more to me? I know that I may sound stupid, but I just don’t totally get it.
THank you!
Posted on November 6, 2007 at 10:19 am
Comment by blestou
Becky,
It is a parable about missions. The man is Jesus - who had a plan from the Father for many generations.
He did what was most important to him - following the plan (working the land) and built a house for everyone to enjoy.
Those who follow him cannot think they can derive personal gain from the house (kingdom), not can they hold all the blessings for themselves.
The only true son of God is the one who continues the Father’s plan - missions to the ends of the earth that all people might enjoy the kingdom of God.
It is not stupid to need a parable explained. The disciples needed Jesus to explain several of his parables - and I’m no Jesus. Thank you very much for the compliment and the interest. I hope it is useful to you someday. We miss you guys.
Grace and Peace,
Brian
Posted on November 7, 2007 at 4:41 pm