This coming Sunday is the 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time. One notable feature of this Markan chapter occurs early in the chapter when Jesus begins the parable with “Hear this! A sower went out to sow…” (v.3) and then closes the teaching with “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” (v.9)  While ending a parable with a plea to discern is typical of the presentation of many parables, the doublet that bookends the first parable of Mark 4 is highly unusual when compared to the traditional Jewish presentation of the masahal/parable. There is interesting scholarly debate on the reason for this doublet, but one possible answer is that parables reveal those who are merely curious at this wonder-worker from the ones who are led by the Spirit to seek the Kingdom. In addition, when the authorities are “watching” it does provide a degree of uncertainty about the message being taught. Continue reading →