The Prophets echoed the perennial plaintive cry of a loving God, calling people to share in His life. They were to belong to Him, living differently. Trusting Him not only when things were going fine, but even when things were disturbing or chaotic. He was to be their God and they His people. Their way of life would be challenged according to the better plan He had for them.

They, however,opted to have it their way, holding on to pride, envy, jealousy and the ways of the world, In God’s hand they were to be a model of a new civilization and world, reflecting the glory of God. Nothing can derail God’s plan for Humanity. He comes down through His Son, bringing the “Shekinah” , the manifestation of His Glory that was prophesied ( Ezk.43/ 1,5.).
The “Shekinah” had left the Temple (Ezk.10/ 18) (11-23). The Lord enters Jerusalem bringing the “Shekinah “ cleansing the Temple. It had been propagating corruption, cheating and worldly values. He cleanses the temples of our hearts, even though we call ourselves good Catholics, of all inherent worldly values and egoistic tendencies. The cursing of the fig tree is a parable in action, representing Jesus’ judgment on a people not being fruitful. It portrays the result of being disobedient and a refusal to accept the Lord as Savior. It’s a punishment we bring upon ourselves. It’s like the fig tree that “was in leaf” ( reflecting potential; outward picture of a healthy life, but bearing no fruit). When in leaf it produces smaller fruit that can be eaten. How often we show off our external religiosity, to impress or to receive feelings of self righteousness. Internally though , there is nothing spiritual or life transforming, instead the unspiritual or death experience the reality.

The reading gives the tools to receive the full potential of life in Christ. Firstly, to trust in Him, believing He can do the impossible to transform our life into His, to remove the obstacles of not being able to forgive. Thirdly to activate the word of God in our life to facilitate sharing in the Shekinah.

Prayer: Abba Father I thank you for your Son coming into my unworthiness and assuring me you love me enough to make me reflect your glory to change this sinful world through Him. Amen