We’ve all done it.

Caught ourselves sizing someone up without meaning to. She’s always got something going on—must bring it on herself.

He never struggles—must be nice.

This week’s Gospel starts with people bringing up a few local tragedies, hoping Jesus will confirm their quiet assumptions: Surely those people had it coming. But Jesus doesn’t bite. He shifts the focus—not toward judgment, but toward personal reflection: What about your life? Are you turning toward what matters? Are you still growing?

It’s a response that echoes the God we meet in the burning bush. When Moses stops to look, God speaks—not with threats or condemnation, but with presence: “I have seen their suffering. I’ve heard their cries. I know what they’re going through.” It’s not a voice of judgment—it’s a voice that moves closer. A God who notices. Who cares. Who acts.

Jesus reflects that same heart. He doesn’t explain the suffering away. He invites the people—and us—to turn our attention inward. Not because God is waiting to strike, but because God is already near.

Then He tells a story.

A fig tree has been standing in a vineyard for years—lots of leaves, but no fruit. The owner’s had enough. “Cut it down,” he says. “It’s just taking up space.” But the gardener steps in: “Give it one more year. Let me care for it, tend to it, help it become what it was meant to be.”

Spoiler: we’re not meant to note his gardening advice, but rather reflection–he’s holding up a mirror.

Sometimes we’re the ones quick to cut people down—not with words maybe–but with the stories we tell ourselves about them.

Sometimes, we do the same to ourselves. I should be further along by now. I should have more to show. Maybe I missed my chance.

I’m guilty of this myself sometimes.

But grace is patient. God doesn’t just see what you’re not producing—He sees what’s still possible. What could grow, if only someone slowed down long enough to tend to it.

So here’s my invitation to you this week: Where in your life have you stopped expecting growth? And who in your life might need a little more time, a little less judgment?

This week, be the one who steps in and says, “Don’t give up yet.” Even if it’s to yourself.

Because sometimes, all it takes is one more season of care—for fruit to finally appear after the messy middle.

God bless,
-FF