Luke Chapter 8 - Randy T

Verse 14:  "The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures and the do not mature."

Isn't this most of us? Its interesting that the words "worries, riches and pleasures" are grouped together here, like each is equally bad or constraining. How many of us chase the "American dream" at the cost of our own spirituality?  We want it all, but when forced to choose, we choose the things, which leads to worries and stress, which leads to less space for God.  Even tv ministers tells us how we can have it all- they say that God wants us to have it all- I think God wants to have us, our undivided attention and love. God doesn't want to come in second to our mortgages, car loans, and other trappings.

Verses 17-18:  "For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into  the open. Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Those who have will be given more; as for those who do not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them."

I need some help here. I understand the first sentence- there are no secrets, nothing is hidden.  We may try to conceal our bad behaviors in darkness, but in time they will be exposed, they always are- just ask any seasoned politician.

Its the last sentence I don't understand- maybe someone on this blog can help me interpret?

Verse 27: He replied, "My mother and brothers are those who hear God's word and put it into practice."

Pretty clear here,  I go the first requirement nailed- "those who hear God's word" but there is an "and" and here is where I fall- "and put it into practice" I know I need to spend a lot more time practicing, Its like, we just need to hear a little of God's word, but we need to "put it into practice" a lot. Maybe we should come up with a ratio like 4 parts practice to one part hearing.Of course I'm being a little silly- or am I?

Verse 50: Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just believe and she will be healed."

This is one of those verses that have probably alienated many people. We all have lost people we love, seen tragedy we don't understand.   Many of us have been at the bedside of a dying loved one, and someone with good intentions have quoted this verse, yet the person passes, anyway. Its almost more than we can stand or comprehend.  I would like to understand this verse more, it's context and when it is applicable.  A deep and complex topic for sure, but many who do not believe hold this verse up as a false promise.  This is a verse that every Christian should take time to understand, if possible.