Daily Gospel Reflection for October 27, 2018

Today's Gospel: Luke 13:1-9 Today’s gospel always makes me feel a little unsettled. At first, Jesus seems to be telling us that tragedy doesn’t happen as punishment for sin. Yet He follows it up with a parable about the uncertain future of an unfruitful fig tree. This reminds me of the times when I’ve first heard devastating news of a seemingly loving marriage falling apart, or a beloved child suddenly wandering astray. The impulse is to compare my live with those of the unfortunate — to find a reason that it happened to them and not to me, to put my mind at ease. I’ve been on the receiving end of such speculation, having been asked during my own time of difficulty how the questioner could raise her children so they didn’t turn out like mine. Ouch. But the fig tree is not producing rotten fruit, or threatening to fall over and injure someone. It is simply not producing anything. The vineyard keeper pleads for a little more time, to dig and fertilize and wait one more season. We are not in danger of being crushed by falling buildings for making a misstep. But our work is not to compare our deeds with those of our neighbors in a least-sinful contest; it is to produce fruit. It is possible for all of us to produce fruit, or for none of us to.

Ponder:

Do I focus on the fruit I’m producing, or on comparing myself with others? Can I turn to scripture and the sacraments to fertilize my soil?

Pray:

Lord, please keep me from comparing my sins with those of my neighbor. When I look at others, let it be to aid and encourage.

Copyright 2018 Marybeth Bishop Marybeth Bishop lives in Annapolis with her husband and children. And two dogs. And some scruffy plants, but she’s pretty sure the hamster is gone for good. She likes to walk, write, and dream of owning goats. She has previously contributed to the Sick Pilgrim blog and to Convivium Journal. Receive CatholicMom.com newsletters in your inbox, including the Daily Gospel Reflection each morning! * indicates required