The Patient Gardener – Your Catholic Weekly Reflection from CMMB

‘Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future.’
—Luke 13:8-9

In today’s Gospel, Jesus shares the parable of the barren fig tree to deliver an important message about the power of patience. The tree had not produced any fruit in three years and the owner asks his gardener to cut it down. But his gardener hesitates and asks to wait one more year. He defends his request, saying with extra care and attention, the tree might bear fruit.

We at CMMB know that change takes time and effort, especially when you are trying to address the leading causes of maternal and child mortality and morbidity. That’s why we commit to the communities where we work for up to twenty years. By investing in their health and dignity, women, children and communities have an opportunity for a better future.

We work hard to strengthen local health systems in underserved areas by improving access to safe water, sanitation, nutrition, and life-saving medicines and medical supplies. There are many obstacles in the way, many things that feel outside of our control, but with patience, love, and perseverance, things can get better for those most in need. Like the patient gardener, we believe in the potential of our communities, and we are committed to seeing the fruits of our labor.

In his Lenten message this year, Pope Francis referred to verse 8:19 in the Romans, “The creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God.” He is referring to God’s patience for each of us. Like the fig tree, He waits for us to bloom. May we always find the courage to ask God to help us transform and heal. May we bear the fruit that He desires from us.

In grace and peace,

CMMB/Healthier Lives Worldwide