Sunday, March 23rd

Scripture

Ex 3: 1-8a, 13-15
Ps 103: 1-4, 6-8, 11
1 Cor 10: 1-6, 10-12
Lk 13: 1-9

Reflection

[The gardener] said to the owner of the orchard, “Sir, leave [the fig tree]
for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize
it; it may bear fruit in the future.” Luke 13:8-9a

So, how’s it going for you, little fig tree? Any fruit—or at least any flowers? Buds? Nothing? What’s the owner of the orchard going to do with you?

I heard the owner wanted to cut you down, but lucky for you, the gardener talked the owner into giving you more time. The gardener, a very patient person, promises to cultivate and fertilize the ground you stand in, hoping that you will bear fruit sooner or later. (I think I’m remembering that this isn’t the first year the gardener has given you another chance.)

So, what will it take to cultivate and fertilize the ground you stand in? The Gardener says,

“Ask for what you need and it will be given to you.”

Is it more faith you need?

Is it clearer vision to see the face of God in yourself and in other people?

Do you need to be watered by tears of sadness for suffering in the world?

Do you want to learn to love as God loves?

“Ask and it will be given to you. The owner of the orchard wants you to bear fruit!”

Prayer

Gracious Gardener,
Increase my yield.
May I bear fruit for an abundant harvest!

Personal Challenge

I will ask for what I need to bear abundant fruit in love.!

Sister Jeanne Cmolik, CSJ
Cleveland, OH