The reading we heard reminds us that we are fortunate to be alive for this blessed season of Lent. Why? Because it means we still have the opportunity to repent our sins and to turn back to God with our whole hearts. We all sin; it is the human condition. But, with hearts in the right place, we feel remorse for our sins and we promise God, others, and ourselves to do better. How lucky we are that we can. As we continue through this holy season, let us make the most of this opportunity.
The two tragic events that Jesus addresses in the Gospel are quite disturbing. These mass deaths presumably left a lasting impression. Jesus uses these horrible tragedies to teach the people who have come to him that it was not sinfulness of those at Siloam or in Galilee that brought about their deaths. No, it is that they had no chance to repent of their sins. Those who hear Jesus’ words are given another chance. We have the wonderful opportunity to repent our sins and return to God with clean hearts.
What happened to the fig tree that didn’t bear fruit? Did it do so next year? Did the owner cut it down? Evidently Jesus’ point did not hinge on whether the tree eventually blossomed or not. Jesus was telling the people that God was willing to give us another chance, but that we must make the most of it before it’s too late. Every person who hears the parable can yet bear fruit. Fasting, praying, and almsgiving. How are we doing at performing the traditional Lenten disciplines? Have they already begun to bear fruit, to make us aware of our dependence on God, to bring us into conversation with God, to give of our plenty and ourselves to those in need? Looking at this Jubilee Year of Hope and our “Journey toward Community” (from God’s perspective), what can we do during the week to justify God’s hope in us?
Love, Peace, Joy,
Fr. Bob
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