Daily Gospel Reflection for October 23, 2021

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Connie A. Beckman

Today's Gospel: Luke 13:1-9

Jesus continually calls each of us to repent. Sometimes though I would rather look at the sinful behavior of others and say silently, "Boy do they need to repent!" But Jesus is calling me to examine my sinful behaviors and repent.

It is so easy to expect others to change their ways while I continue in my own sinful attitudes and behaviors. It has to begin with me. I am so thankful for the Sacrament of Reconciliation where I can confess my sins not the sins of others. It is a sacrament of mercy and love. It is a sacrament that helps me to keep my side of the street clean while working on my own shortcomings.

Jesus is like the faithful garden, in the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree. He never gives up on me. He continues to pour out His graces upon me even when my heart is closed and barren. “He said to him in reply, ‘Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it." Jesus cultivates my soul and continues to fertilize my soul each time I receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. He invites me to come into the quiet to get refreshed and renewed by His Precious Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me" (Ps 51).

Ponder:

Is Jesus inviting you to go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation?

Pray:

“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin” (Ps 51).

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Jesus continues to pour out His graces upon me even when my heart is closed and barren. #dailygospel

Copyright 2021 Connie A. Beckman

Connie Beckman resides in Helena Montana with her husband and is a member of Saint Cyril & Methodious Parish. Her desire as a writer is to encourage Catholic spiritual growth by sharing the truths of the faith through the written word addressing a variety of subjects. Connie shares her joy and love of God at her website.