Homily/Sermon: Third Sunday of Lent 



A Second Chance – God’s Call to Repentance

There’s a story of an old farmer who planted a fig tree in his yard. Year after year, he checked for fruit, but there was none. His frustration grew until one day, he picked up his axe, ready to chop it down. Just then, his grandson ran up and said, "Grandpa, maybe it needs a little more love and patience." The old man sighed, put down the axe, and gave it one more year.

Today's Gospel is about second chances—God’s mercy and patience with us, just like that fig tree.

  • First Reading (Exodus 3:1-8a, 13-15): Moses encounters the burning bush, where God reveals His name: “I AM WHO I AM.” This is a powerful moment of calling and transformation—God does not abandon His people but steps in to save them.

  • Psalm (Psalm 103): The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in kindness. This reminds us that despite our failures, God gives us another chance.

  • Second Reading (1 Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12): St. Paul warns us against complacency. The Israelites received many blessings but still fell into sin. This is a wake-up call: blessings come with responsibility.

  • Gospel (Luke 13:1-9): Jesus tells the parable of the fig tree. For three years, it bore no fruit. The owner wanted to cut it down, but the gardener pleaded for more time. This is the essence of Lent—a time of mercy and renewal.

The Eucharist is our burning bush moment—it is where God reveals Himself and nourishes us to bear fruit. When we receive the Body and Blood of Christ, we are given yet another chance to grow in faith, hope, and love.

Question for Reflection

Am I bearing fruit in my life, or am I just occupying space like the barren fig tree?

Daily Practical Application

  • Examine your spiritual life—What areas need more growth?

  • Be patient with others—God gives us second chances; can we do the same?

  • Act on your faith—Don’t just be a spectator in the Church; get involved.

Life is hard, and sometimes we feel like that barren tree—empty, tired, and ready to give up. But God sees potential in you! Don’t give up on yourself because God hasn’t given up on you.

What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

The Jubilee Year is a time of renewal. Use this season to:

  • Go for Confession and experience God’s mercy.

  • Help someone who is struggling—be the gardener who nurtures another.

  • Pray for South Africa, especially for justice and reconciliation.

Lent reminds us that we are all on a journey of transformation. We may not be perfect, but we are in God’s hands, and He is not done with us yet.

"God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking His mercy." – Pope Francis

The fig tree had one more chance. So do we. Let this Lent be a time of growth, renewal, and fruitfulness.

Lord, You are patient and full of mercy. Thank You for never giving up on us. Help us to use this time of Lent to grow in faith, hope, and love. May we bear fruit in our lives and share Your kindness with others. Amen.

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