A Call to Repentance and Renewal

As we journey through this holy season of Lent, today’s readings remind us of God’s patience, mercy, and call to conversion. Lent is a time of renewal—a time to turn away from sin and return to the Lord with sincere hearts. Through today’s Scripture, God speaks to us about His desire to save, His justice, and His call to repentance.

In the Gospel, Jesus responds to those questioning why some people suffer more than others. Instead of explaining why tragedies happen, He shifts the focus to what truly matters—conversion. He warns, “Unless you repent, you will all perish as they did.” (Luke 13:3)

Jesus then tells the parable of the barren fig tree. The owner wants to cut it down because it has not borne fruit, but the gardener asks for more time to cultivate and nourish it. This parable reveals both God’s justice and His mercy. He expects us to bear fruit in our lives—fruits of faith, love, and good works. But He also gives us time and opportunities to change.

Lent is our “extra time” to bear fruit. God is patient with us, but He also calls us to act. How can we respond to this call?

Examine our hearts: What are the areas in our lives where we need repentance and renewal?

Through prayer, the Sacraments, and reading Scripture, we can strengthen our relationship with God. By acts of charity, forgiveness, and service to others, we can bear good fruit.

God is merciful, but He also expects us to respond to His grace. He does not want us to delay our conversion. Let us not waste the time given to us. Like the fig tree, let us allow God to cultivate our hearts so that we may bear the fruits of holiness.

May this Lenten season be a time of true renewal, so that when we stand before God, we will not be found barren but full of the fruits of faith and love.

Amen.