Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 13, 1- 9
Some people told Jesus about the Galileans
whose blood Pilate had mingled with the blood of their sacrifices.
He said to them in reply,
“Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way
they were greater sinners than all other Galileans?
By no means!
But I tell you, if you do not repent,
you will all perish as they did!
Or those eighteen people who were killed
when the tower at Siloam fell on them—
do you think they were more guilty
than everyone else who lived in Jerusalem?
By no means!
But I tell you, if you do not repent,
you will all perish as they did!”
And he told them this parable:
“There once was a person who had a fig tree planted in his orchard,
and when he came in search of fruit on it but found none,
he said to the gardener,
‘For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree
but have found none.
So cut it down.
Why should it exhaust the soil?’
He said to him in reply,
‘Sir, leave it for this year also,
and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it;
it may bear fruit in the future.
If not you can cut it down.’”
Sacrifices
1. Greater sinners. In the Christian world, we often measure who is a “greater sinner” or a “lesser sinner”. We even analyze people within the Church and run a test to see who is the least sinful before giving them responsibilities, and that’s completely different from what Jesus did. If we were to choose apostles today, based on our style, none of the twelve Jesus chose would be selected considering the tests we use. The entrance tests we use in the Church today may create a dichotomy with how Jesus chose people. Jesus looked at the person more than the sin, but today, you and I first look at a person’s sin and then judge them. No one is a greater sinner or a lesser saint than anyone else; everyone is living life and facing situations as best they can. The key is knowing your own limits and being able to own your weakness and recognize the greatness that allows you to help others.
2. Conversion. As we journey through life, you and I need to change, because life is dynamic, and we can’t just say, “This is the way I am, and that’s final.” There are things you must commit to changing; there are aspects of your life that have expired. Some of your attitudes might be toxic, and it seems you have to hit rock bottom before you say, “You’re right, I need to change.” You can’t constantly rely on everyone else to adapt to you. You’re the one who must strive to be better and always give your best, and that requires transformation.
3. Time on earth is not eternal. Everything has a limit, and time runs out. Therefore, my friend, look at your life and decide what things you need to let go of and what things are beneficial to take on. Time reminds us that you and I have an expiration date; you can’t leave things half-finished in your life.
Remember something good is on the way!
God bless you and protect you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
