He also said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come." (Mark 4:26-29)

The kingdom of God grows of its own power.

How it grows is a mystery. It cannot be seen. The Greek - oikeios - suggests it is beyond the man's capacity to know.

Yet when it is time, when it is ready, the man will enjoy its benefit. In fact his very life depends on it.

The parable's emphasis is undoubtedly on the independent power and significant benefit of the kingdom of God.

Yet, once again, our own role - in casting and harvesting - is also noted.

Above is planting season from the Book of Hours (Tres Riche Heures)