An Opportunity to Become Wheat

On Friday 5th September, our branches across London came together at our headquarters in Finsbury Park for the Night Vigil of the Sower. The meeting, which began at 10pm, was a special moment for those who longed to be filled with the Holy Spirit and for others who wished to renew their covenant with God.

Bishop James Marques shared a message on the well-known parable from Matthew 13, which compares the wheat and the tares. In biblical times, once the wheat was harvested, it was taken to the threshing floor, beaten, and then tossed into the air. The wind would blow away the chaff, which was inedible, while the wheat remained.

Bishop explained that wheat and tares look almost identical as they grow, but when fully matured, the difference becomes clear. The wheat produces grain and bends under its own weight, while the tares stand tall and empty. In the same way, people of God show humility, accepting correction, while the proud stand like tares.

Even within the church today, both wheat and tares can be found. But if the tares are no good, who planted them? The parable states it was the enemy. Why, then, does God allow them to remain? Jesus chose not to remove the tares, knowing that doing so might also harm the wheat. Instead, time and by the fruit we bear reveals who is truly wheat.

A person only becomes “wheat” when they are born of God and filled with the Holy Spirit. So, how can we recognise wheat? Bishop highlighted four clear signs:

1. They remain – they are steadfast in their faith.
2. They are pleasant to deal with – their character reflects Christ.
3. They are faithful to God – they are committed no matter the circumstance.
4. They are restless to save souls – always seeking to share the Good News.

As Matthew 13:30 reminds us, that there is always hope for a tare to become wheat, and those present who acknowledged their spiritual condition were given the opportunity to become wheat.

The night vigil was also a moment to celebrate. From Monday 15^th September, Liberty Radio will be going digital, making it possible to tune in while driving and reaching many more people with the Word of God.

During the night, Pastor Rennan Vieira and his wife Carla were consecrated on the Altar, ready to serve God with even greater dedication.

The night vigil concluded with a prayer for those who desire to do the work of God on the Altar, reminding us that being born of God makes us sowers, chosen to lead others to Him.