accept His call

Luke 13:8&9

"8 And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:

9 And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down."

As we conclude Lent, Jesus shares the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree. A vineyard owner wants to cut down a fruitless tree, but the gardener intercedes.

In verse 8, the gardener—representing Jesus or faithful ministers—pleads with the owner (God the Father) to spare the tree for one more year: “Let it alone this year also.” The Greek word aphes (“let it alone”) also means “forgive,” highlighting divine patience and grace.

The gardener promises to dig around the tree and fertilize it, symbolizing spiritual cultivation through repentance, teaching, and care. Mercy is extended, but it comes with expected action.

Verse 9 adds the condition: “If it bears fruit, well; but if not, you may cut it down.” God’s patience has limits. Persistent unfruitfulness leads to judgment, urging genuine repentance.

We never know when our last day will come. The people crushed by the tower were no worse than others. Before we pass, Jesus calls us to faith. He wants us in heaven.

Accept His call to repentance. Dedicate your time and energy to God’s kingdom—love, reconciliation, healing, and hope.

As we enter Holy Week—Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday—let the Gospel enrich your faith, draw you closer to Jesus, and renew your zeal to lead your community away from sin, suffering, and the power of the devil.

Amen!