Day 19 of Lent

In today's Gospel Jesus tells a parable of the fig tree.

In this parable, the owner of the vineyard wants to cut down the fig tree because it is barren, it is not producing figs. But the "vine dresser" steps forward and intercedes for the fig tree by telling the owner he will care for it and help it bear fruit.

Long ago a priest once told me that he recognized in this parable, Christ as the "owner", and the Blessed Virgin Mary as the "vine dresser."

We should never forget the role that Our Lady/Mother plays in our salvation. She intercedes for us, and does her very best to cultivate virtue and holiness within our hearts and souls so that we, unlike the fig tree, may bear fruit for the Kingdom.

During this Lenten season I have tried, and will continue to try, to turn to Our Lady, begging her to help me repent and believe in the Gospel.

God Bless!