A father took three ears of corn from the field and handed them to his son.
“These three ears,” he said, “came from the same row of corn. Do you think they will be alike.”
“Let’s open them and see.” said the boy.
The first ear was full and beautiful. “Isn’t that wonderful corn!” said the boy.
The second ear was under developed and barren on one side. A large worm was in the third ear and what would have been a good ear was half eaten and ugly.
“How did that happen,” asked the boy of his father.
“Well, the worm was planted early in the life of the corn and grew up inside to destroy the corn. The undeveloped second ear was at the shady end of the row and spent too much time in the shadows. The good ear had the benefit of sunshine and rain.”
“Humph! And they all looked so beautiful from the outside,” said the son.
The father said: “There’s something to be learned here. Don’t linger too long in the shadows. See the blessings of sunshine and rain. Go to church and destroy the worms in your childhood through prayer. Most important of all, live your life in the sunshine of God’s Love.”
Which of the three ears of corn does YOUR life resemble today?
NEVER PASS UP THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY NATURE’S BEAUTY. IT’S THE HANDWRITING OF GOD!
Please share this Message with your children and your grandchildren.
My Commentary:
This short parable holds profound spiritual and moral wisdom, disguised in the simple act of opening three ears of corn. The father invites his son to explore what lies beneath the surface—a lesson that applies as much to the human soul as it does to a field of corn. Though the three ears grew side by side in the same soil, exposed to seemingly similar conditions, they turned out vastly different. Why? Because subtle differences in exposure, care, and hidden harm made all the difference.
The first ear, full and beautiful, symbolizes a life lived in the open light of God’s love, nourished by truth, goodness, and grace. It shows what we become when we embrace spiritual disciplines, community, and the blessings God showers upon us.
The second ear, stunted by shadows, reminds us that spiritual growth can be hindered when we linger too long in doubt, fear, complacency, or isolation. Though not evil, this ear lacked the nourishment it needed—much like a soul that avoids prayer, worship, or meaningful reflection.
The third ear, eaten by a worm that grew undetected, offers the most sobering truth: the most dangerous harm is often internal and hidden. Left unchecked, early seeds of sin, bitterness, or shame can destroy the goodness God intends for us. As the father wisely says, those “worms” must be rooted out early—through prayer, repentance, and a strong moral foundation.
The father’s words, “Live your life in the sunshine of God’s love,” echo Christ’s call to walk in the light. This is a call to truth, integrity, and joy. It’s a reminder that external appearances can be deceiving and that true beauty comes from within—a heart aligned with God.
Which ear do you resemble today?
Let this story serve as an invitation:
Finally, don’t miss the closing line: “NEVER PASS UP THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY NATURE’S BEAUTY. IT’S THE HANDWRITING OF GOD!” Even as we examine our inner lives, God’s creation around us constantly reveals His presence, love, and artistry. Let nature guide us back to awe, gratitude, and hope. Amen.
