Today's Catholic Mass Reading and Gospel Reflection - March 23, 2025

Call to Turn Back and Bear Fruit 1st Reading - Ex 3:1-8a, 13-15 2nd Reading - 1 Cor 10:1-6, 10-12 Gospel - Lk 13:1-9 In the first reading from Exodus, God appears to Moses in the burning bush, revealing Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He sees the suffering of His people and calls Moses to lead them out of bondage. God’s name, “I AM,” reflects His eternal presence and faithfulness. This passage reminds us that God not only sees our struggles but actively works to bring us to freedom and new life. In the second reading, Paul warns the Corinthians about becoming complacent in their faith. He recalls how the Israelites, despite witnessing God’s miracles, still fell into disobedience and idolatry. Their failures serve as a reminder that we, too, must remain vigilant and not take God’s grace for granted. Paul’s words challenge us to examine our lives and avoid repeating the same mistakes. In the Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of the barren fig tree, warning that a tree that does not bear fruit risks being cut down. Yet, the gardener pleads for more time, offering care and nourishment in hopes that the tree will thrive. This parable highlights God’s patience with us, giving us opportunities to repent and bear fruit in our lives. However, it also serves as a reminder that time is not unlimited, and we must respond to His call. Together, these readings invite us to recognize God’s call, avoid complacency, and bear fruit in our lives. God sees our struggles and is patient with us, but He also calls us to action and growth. Our faith is not meant to be stagnant but alive and fruitful. When we respond to God’s mercy with repentance and a desire to change, we allow His grace to transform us. Today, I will reflect on where I need to grow and bear fruit in my life. I will seek to identify any areas of complacency and ask God for the grace to change. I will commit to taking small, concrete steps toward living out my faith more fully. With a heart open to God’s mercy, I will embrace the opportunity to grow and become who He calls me to be.