Lk.13: 1-9
“We are converted not just once in our lifetime but several times. This endless series of conversions and inner revolutions lead us to our transformation.” (Thomas Merton) A word that we may constantly mediate in this season of Lent is Metanoia. It denotes change of one’s mind or attitude. In a deeper sense it also implies taking a decision to turn around and to face a new direction. It is a spiritual U-turn and at the same time turning towards the mercy of God. I would call this return journey – in search of our roots – conversion. The greatest temptation in this journey is to go back to the same old road from where we deviated and go astray from God. The most important factor with regard to conversion is the self-awareness that I am in need of conversion. As I write this reflection if I don’t have that self-awareness, I may write volumes about conversion for others but I may never think about the conversion that I stand in need of.
The most enlightened moment in the parable of the prodigal son is the moment wherein, prodigal son recognizes that he has gone astray from his father and the need to get back to his father’s house. A self-awareness that helps one to realize that God has given each all the blessings in abundance but have squandered his blessings and remains fruitless, and it is time to bear fruit. This is the sum total of today’s gospel message. God has given us talents, time and grace to be fruitful. This passage invites us to enter into a deeper examination of conscience and reflect: are we really glorifying God by being fruitful? At times we may think that everything is fine with us like the tree that has lots of green leaves but no fruits. The man who is responsible for the tree pleads with Lord to give it one more chance that it may come out of its external show off and bear fruits. May this Holy season of Lent lead us to that self-awareness that we are in need of conversion and this conversion is manifested in our sincere effort to be fruitful.