What’s going on with the barren fig tree in today’s Gospel? It’s growing in an orchard and a gardener cares for it. It should have everything it needs to bear fruit, but it’s barren. So what’s the problem? When the orchard owner tells the gardener to cut down the barren tree, the gardener asks him to spare it: “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” (Lk 13:8-9). So perhaps the tree isn’t getting enough nourishment. Maybe the gardener hasn’t been diligent in feeding or watering it. Also, if the ground around it hasn’t been cultivated, weeds could be stealing its water and nutrients.
The barren fig tree isn’t fulfilling its purpose. A tree full of fruit is a beautiful sight. It’s fully alive. Jesus is looking for the “figs” in our lives—our spiritual fruits. He wants to see us bear good fruit because it’s our purpose: to be fully alive and fruitful. Jesus said, “I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly” (Jn 10:10).
“The glory of God is a human being fully alive.”
St. Irenaeus
It’s important to care for the planting that is our spiritual lives. We must tend to them and help them grow. “The fruit of a tree shows the care it has had” (Sir 27:6). Is your spiritual life bearing the fruits of virtue, such as charity, patience, courage, and humility? If you’re feeling dry or find that you’re struggling to bear fruit, focus on becoming “rooted” in Christ. Read the parable of the Vine and the Branches (John 15:1-17) and consider how well you’re attached to the True Vine (John 15:1). Or read the Parable of the Sower (Matt 13:1-23) and consider if weeds and thorns—worry and anxiety—are choking your spirit (Matt 13:22). This week, ask Jesus to heal you from whatever is getting in the way of being fully alive.
Lord Jesus, help me to be fully alive in You so that I can bear good fruit for Your glory!
Readings for the 3rd Sunday of Lent
EXODUS 3: 1-8, 13-15
PSALM 103
1 CORINTHIANS 10: 1-6, 10-12
LUKE 13: 1-9