He is like a tree planted near running water, that yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never fade. Whatever he does, prospers.
Psalm 1:2
Some people are just never satisfied. We hear in this reading how John the Baptist and Jesus acted in ways opposite to each other, and yet people complained about them regardless. Yet neither were swayed in their courses of action. It’s not the role of a Christian to be a people pleaser or one who sets their ways based on the world. Instead, we are to be like the tree in today’s psalm. It is deeply, healthily rooted along the river bed, constantly tapped into its source of life, the water. It bears good fruit and its branches never fade. In Advent, one might also think of a Jesse tree, which displays Jesus’ lineage; his (and thus our) strong family tree. Our source of life is Jesus. Our nourishment is the Eucharist and sacraments, and our direction is found through prayer, the Scriptures, and the Sacred Tradition of the church. Staying rooted here is how God will grow wisdom in us. Confession and examining our consciences help to prune away unhealthy growth.
Lord, what is one branch you’d like to prune in me this Advent so that I can bear healthier fruit?
Root of Jesse, make me a strong branch, rooted in You.
Today’s Reflection is by:
Sarah Williford
Did you know...
After 10+ years in faith formation and youth ministry, Sarah Williford’s new adventure is rocking the mom life at home with her new daughter and some side hustles. She thrives on a good cup of tea, layered harmonies, quirky comedies, Adoration, and her husband, Ryan. You can catch her at the Saint Jude Moms Group on Wednesday mornings.
