Daily Catholic Lectio
Sat, 26 October ‘24
Saturday of the XXIX Week of the Year
Ephesians 4:7-16. Luke 13:1-9
Time for change
During the time of Jesus, it was believed that one suffered because of his or her sins. The accidents and problems that fell on a person were seen as curses from God. Often times, today’s evangelical and charismatic preachers have this mindset. We need to remember that God is merciful and he is not revengeful.
Jesus proposes a view that is different from that of his contemporaries. The accidents and mishaps just happen. Since our life is volatile, it is necessary that we take advantage of our lifetime and come back to God.
In the first reading, St. Paul teaches that “each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift.” Each person has a unique role in the Body of Christ, gifted by grace to contribute toward building up the Church.
We are invited to recognize these gifts as blessings and opportunities. True change begins when we understand that God has endowed us with specific talents and insights to inspire and support others. The time for change is the time to activate these gifts for the common good, remembering that every calling is necessary in God’s plan.
In the gospel reading, the owner of the vineyard is ready to cut down the unproductive fig tree, but the gardener intercedes, asking for one more year. This patient waiting is a testament to God’s mercy and love. Jesus calls us to respond to this divine patience with a renewed purpose.
Change, then, is not to be delayed. God’s grace gives us time to turn toward Him, to seek forgiveness, and to embrace transformation. This call is an invitation to look within, let go of complacency, and to act – not out of fear, but in response to love. It’s a time to bear fruit, sharing kindness, forgiveness, and compassion, so that our lives may reflect the presence of Christ in us.
In embracing this time for change, we respond to God’s love with faithfulness, working together to build a community rooted in grace, maturity, and purpose. May we, like the gardener, nourish and uplift one another, so that all may grow in the love of Christ.
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The ‘pilgrims of hope’ know the time for change. (Jubilee 2025 AD, bite 235)
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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