The theme today is faith. I chose a photo of a trunk of a tree because it is the base for a mass of branches going in many different directions. These branches can provide shade to a passer by, a home for a family of birds, or used to make necessities for everyday life.
You are probably wondering how a tree relates to faith.
Let me explain, think of the roots of the tree as God. The roots provide the means to keep the tree living. Without roots the tree would die because it would not be able to recieve the nutrients and water that it needs. The roots are not visible to the human eye until the tree is dug up. God is much like the roots of the tree. He allows us to have an everlasting life in heaven and is not physically present in our lives. We may not see him, but we know that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are present in our lives.
The trunk of the tree is our faith. The trunk of the tree connects the roots to all of the branches. It allows the branches to span over a large area while still being connected. Our faith is what connects all of us as sisters and brothers.
We are the branches. The branches cover a wide area above the trunk. Each branch, while not all connected or going in the same direction are all brought together and kept alive by the trunk. Our faith brings us all together even though we may not know one another and are all going in different directions.
If you have ever been to Catholic mass you know that you can go to any Catholic church and know what is going on. You do not need to "belong" to the church in order to be accepted. Something I have come to appreciate is how many churches I have been to. Being on vacation has never been an excuse not to attend mass on Sundays because you are always welcome, even in a different state or country! I have had the privilege to attend mass in some beautiful churches and in different environments. It is amazing how you can attend mass where you know no one and still be greeted with a smile, a handshake, and a "peace be with you". Our faith is something that connects us all in such a strong way that we need to appreciate it.
Over Lent we must come to relaize that God has brought us all together to help each other growing. We must have faith in God and ourselves that we can keep true to our promises and keep us moving forward in his plan for us.