Jesus said, Look, the sower went out, took a handful (of seeds), and scattered (them). Some fell on the road, and the birds came and gathered them. Others fell on rock, and they didn't take root in the soil and didn't produce heads of grain. Others fell on thorns, and they choked the seeds and worms ate them. And others fell on good soil, and it produced a good crop: it yielded sixty per measure and one hundred twenty per measure. (9 Thomas)

This is one of the most familiar of the parables. Very similar versions are offered in Mark, Matthew and Luke.

The seed is scattered far and wide. The same potential exists with every seed. The potential is amazing.

But a great deal depends on context and readiness. Are we surrounded by thorns? By rocks? Or are we receptive, moist, and fertile?

I have always appreciated the role of the birds. Especially if the seeds lay exposed on rocks or the path, birds are likely to eat them.

In some cases - after the seed has been eaten and the bird has flown far away - the seed may still find its way to fertile soil and achieve its potential.