I like the imagery of the fig tree in today’s gospel. It is a simple yet powerful picture of life and purpose. In my prayer, I imagine myself as that fig tree, planted with care in good soil, given everything I need to grow and bear fruit. Life itself is a gift freely given. The sun, the rain, the love, and the opportunities that come my way are all blessings I did nothing to earn. Yet there is one thing expected of me: to bear fruit. That is my way of showing gratitude and living with purpose. If I fail to bear fruit, something of the Creator’s hope for me remains unfulfilled.
The story of the fig tree and the gardener is, at its heart, a story of hope and patience. The gardener sees beyond my present barrenness and believes in what I can still become. He pleads for another chance, trusting that with care, pruning, and time, there will be new growth. Often, those painful moments of pruning, correction, struggle, or loss are the gardener’s way of helping me grow stronger and more fruitful.
It is said that nothing that only takes and never gives can truly live. The barren fig tree drew life from the soil but gave nothing in return. In life, too, we are called not only to receive but to give, to put back more than we take. In the end, we are all debtors to life. We have received love, faith, and freedom through the sacrifices of others. Our task is to pass them on, bearing fruit that nourishes others and leaves the world a little better than we found it.
Rev. Anish Kochanichottil, SJ
My name is Anish Kochanichottil. I am a Jesuit from India, currently residing at the Jerome Nadal Jesuit Residence while pursuing my MBA from Creighton University. Before coming to the USA, I was involved in school education for over a decade. My academic background includes a doctorate in education, with research focused on Critical Pedagogy and Missionary Education. I am truly excited to be part of the online ministry’s daily reflections and to share my insights.
