Sunday Reflections

This Sunday’s gospel is full of contradictions.  Twice in the first paragraph Jesus says, “But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!”.  That is a very powerful, clear-cut message.  If you were present when these words were spoken, how would you have reacted?  Initially with shock and then maybe with despair, “all is lost, without repentance, I’m doomed to eternal damnation”.

But wait, as per usual Jesus shares a parable, which we would expect, reinforces the message, the opening salvo.  We probably fully expect the landowner to tell the gardener to cut down and burn the fig tree.

Not so fast.  When the gardener appeals for mercy, although not explicitly stated, the landowner is presumed to agree to the gardener’s suggestion. 

In the first reading from Exodus, we are reminded of God coming to rescue his people, which is the approach shared also in the reading from Luke.    While St. Paul in the second reading, also reminds us of what can happen to us if we do not repent, although salvation is not spoken of.

So, this is our challenge.  In the darkest of times, to always remember the infinite mercy of God, His willingness to forgive.  Calling on the grace of God, we too, like the fig tree, will be given a reprieve; an opportunity to live in love, to bear fruit.