Tree planted beside the waters

Gospel Thoughts

*Lenten Season : C Cycle : Second Week: Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 16:19-31*

*FIRST READING - Jer 17:5-10*

*Tree planted beside the waters*

*1) A beautiful imagery*

Tree and water has intimate connection. Because the survival of the tree depends on the availability of the Water 

This is a beautiful imagery because, it gives a powerful message and it captured our attention at ones 

This is a beautiful imagery because, the tree beside water is always fresh, green, full of life and ready bear fruit in due season 

*2) Only tree needs Water*

When we reflect about this imagery it clearly shows us that, it is the tree which needs water for its survival all the time. 

Tree can't survive without water. Its survival depends on the Water 

That's why tree planted besides the river always has good life and it can produce good fruit. 

*3) Water and Tree - God and My Life*

This imagery has direct link to our life 

As we know that water is no essential for the survival of the tree, likewise we can't exist without God 

Our existence depends on God and God is the one who fills the energy to our life 

So it is very important to see the link between our life and God and also between Tree and Water 

*4) A tree besides the Water*

The First reading of the day gives us some important points about the tree which is planted besides the water 

It stretches out its roots to the stream:

It fears not the heat when it comes

Its leaves stay green;

In the year of drought it shows no distress, but still bears fruit.

So there are many advantages for the tree which is planted near the water. 

*5) Life planted in God*

A life planted in God always sees growth. Because it stretches out its root to the ocean of God's life 

It has no fear of Satan and its temptations

The Holiness in such life is always ever green and very creative 

Such life does not fear any challenges, problems and crisis in life. 

*6) Where I have planted the tree of my life?* 

Have I planted it in Gospel and on the word of God? 

Have I planted it in the service, love, sacrifice, generosity, good will, forgiveness and other kingdom values? 

Have I planted it in the wordly things like, money, wealth, position, power, arrogance, greed, selfishness, gossip, hatred, war, sensual pleasure etc 

The growth of the tree depends on where it is planted. 

Today how do I see the growth of my tree of life??

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*