The Fields Are White, & Children Are the Wheat!

The Bible is filled with metaphors and symbolic language that can sometimes be hard to understand. One such metaphor is found in the New Testament, where Jesus talks about the fields being white unto harvest and the need for laborers in the harvest field. Many people, including myself, have wondered what exactly Jesus meant by “white wheat” in this context. In this article, we will explore different interpretations and shed some light on the meaning behind this metaphor.

Growing up in eastern Montana and living in North Dakota, where wheat farming is a prominent industry, I always associated the phrase “white wheat” with the color of ripe wheat fields. In the fall, when the wheat is ready for harvesting, it turns a beautiful golden-yellow color. The sight of these fields is truly breathtaking. However, during heavy rains that occur around harvest time, the phosphorus in wheat can wash out, causing it to turn white or faded yellow.

What is White Wheat?

I remember discussing this topic with my friend Rudy, who grew up on a wheat farm. Even he was unsure about the meaning of “white wheat” in the Bible. Speculating that perhaps Israel had a different kind of wheat that turned white at harvest time, he shared his uncertainty. My father, who also grew up on a wheat farm, recalled that heavy rains near harvest time could wash out the phosphorus, causing the wheat to turn white. These conversations sparked my curiosity, and I decided to do some research to find out more.

In my quest for answers, I turned to the internet, where I found various agricultural websites that discussed white wheat. According to these sources, white wheat is often associated with a disease that affects the crop, turning it white in the process. The images I came across depicted wheat that was extremely white, almost like a piece of paper. However, the wheat I had seen in North Dakota appeared more like a faded-out yellow, not as crisp and white as the images I found.

Linking my observations with the information I gathered, a theory began to form. If the phosphorus in the wheat washes out due to heavy rains, causing it to turn white, and white wheat is associated with a disease, then it suggests that the fields are nearing the point of losing their harvest. This realization reminded me of the importance of reaching out to children before they turn “white.”

Children Are Often Overlooked

In the context of spiritual matters and salvation, children are often overlooked as a significant harvest field. The teenage years and the influence of the world can lead to a decline in their spiritual lives, symbolized by the turning of the wheat from golden to white. If we fail to reach children in a timely manner, their potential for spiritual growth may diminish. Understanding this metaphor offers a call to action—reaching out and sharing the Gospel with children, emphasizing the excitement and transformative power of a life dedicated to Jesus Christ.

Children, in their innocence and receptiveness, are primed to experience the wonders of a life devoted to Christ. As adults, it is our responsibility to guide and mentor them, exposing them to the miraculous works of God. By teaching them to listen to God’s voice, experience healing, and live a life filled with the Spirit, we can help them build a strong foundation in their faith.

So, the next time you read or hear the phrase “the fields are white unto harvest,” remember that it is not merely referring to wheat fields but also symbolizes the potential harvest of children. Let us not forget about this crucial aspect when considering this verse.

We Are in Danger of Losing the Crop of Children!

In conclusion, the phrase “white wheat” in the New Testament metaphorically represents the state of the harvest fields nearing the point of losing their crop. It serves as a reminder to prioritize reaching out to children, as they represent a vital harvest field often overlooked in discussions about spirituality and salvation. By sharing the Gospel and instilling a passion for a life devoted to Jesus in children, we can make a significant impact on their spiritual journey and ensure a bountiful harvest for the Kingdom of God. Let us take this call to action seriously and invest our time, effort, and resources into the children around us.