Advent reminds us we live with a different world in view. Sometimes we get swamped by Christmas preparations like gift-giving and extra social activities. December is full of noise and things competing to grab our attention, and it becomes easy to narrow our focus to get through each day.
People wanted a clear sign that Jesus was sent by G-d. He uses the metaphor of fruit-bearing trees to tease them into seeing the evidence that is already there. As with the tree, our words and actions reveal our power source.
Yesterday’s passage reminded us of G-d’s abundant grace around us. Today’s asks us to see how our words and deeds reveal our own interior abundance (or poverty).
What can we do to stay anchored in the heart of grace when surrounded by December’s demands? How might we offer those we encounter attention, kind words, and life-affirming actions? (Remember, the interruption is the ministry!) Can we remember that these are part of our treasure when given to others?
Holy One, help us to live from the abundance you have poured into our hearts, sharing with those we meet today the same fruit of mercy and compassion that Jesus had. Amen. —