“Our earth, that is, our heart, receives blessings if it receives "the rain" of the doctrine of the law "that often falls upon it" and brings forth the fruit of works. But if it does not have a spiritual work but "thorns and thistles," that is, cares of the world or the desire of pleasures and riches, "it is worthless…”
Origen of Alexandria, 3th c. — HOMILIES ON LEVITICUS 16.2.4-6
Original
7For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:
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In context
5And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
6If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
— Hebrews 6:7 —
8But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.
9But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.