The answer is: Eaten by birds

Matthew 13:4

In the Parable of the Sower found in Matthew 13, we see seeds representing the word of God being spread far and wide. When some seeds fell by the wayside, they were gobbled up by birds. This imagery isn't just a clever storytelling device; it carries profound significance!

The wayside symbolizes a hardened heart receiving the word but failing to comprehend its depths. Imagine a well-trodden pathway: it's hard, dry, and folks often walk all over it. Much like someone whose heart has been trampled by life's stresses or cynicism, they might struggle to let spiritual wisdom take root.

Interestingly, in ancient Near Eastern cultures, birds often represented evil or chaos in Scripture. For example, in the Gospels, Mark also highlights this connection — where the devil snatches away the word before it can take effect. This notion can serve as a reminder to stay vigilant about the teachings we embrace and busy ourselves navigating distractions that try to hinder our growth.

Trivia for you: this parable emphasizes not just the joy of cultivation, but highlights the responsibility that comes with it! The variations of response to the seeds reflect varying types of folks we encounter in life, so it poses the question—what kind of soil are you? The seeds hitting the roadway remind us that protecting our treasures—whether faith, opportunities, or kindness—requires some serious safeguarding to avoid being lost before they can sprout.