Reflecting on the chosen readings of today, we encounter God who is merciful and kind and “secures justice and the rights of all the oppressed” (Psalm, 103). Witnessing the continuing war in Ukraine and violent conflicts in other parts of our global world, let us listen to God’s comforting words: “I have witnessed the affliction of my people… and I have heard their cry of complaint against [the oppressors]… I know well what they are suffering. Therefore, I have come down to rescue them from the hands of [the oppressors]” (Ex; 3:7-8). In today’s Gospel too, Jesus reminds us of our own vulnerabilities and need to repent and change our evil ways. Through the parable of the barren fig tree we are reminded of the importance of patience, nurturance and giving others a second chance (Luke; 13; 1-9).
Therefore, let us ask for forgiveness for the times we have…
… failed to protect and nurture our brothers and sisters and our common home…
… abetted in any way injustice and oppression through our silence and ‘sin of omission’ (‘for what I have failed to do’)…
… refused to ‘remove our shoes’ as we approach all humanity and our common home - God’s holy ground…
… imposed our footprints to oppress and stifle people and the whole of creation…
… turned a blind eye to embracing our solidarity as God’s children…
Lord! give us a second chance… Amen.