Main Text: Luke 6:17-26 (Jeremiah 17:5-10; 1 Corinthians 15:12-20)
This reading from Jeremiah says that relationship with God is like a tree planted beside a stream. When the tree sinks its roots deep into the moisture of the river bank, even when the heat and drought come, the tree is able to bear fruit through it all. First Corinthians reminds us that our faith is the roots we are to sink into that moist soil of the Kingdom of God. When we truly sink the roots of our faith in the very real promise of the resurrection, we also will be able to draw nourishment and produce fruit no matter the seasons of this life. Paul speaks about the first fruits, but we are reminded that is not necessarily the best fruits. The tree of faith continues to produce fruit in all seasons because of the abundance of God. In Luke’s Gospel, we hear the story of the sermon on the plain. Jesus was moving freely with and among the people. When they touched him, power would come out from him and healing grace was given. Then Jesus tells them that they are blessed no matter their circumstances. When our faith is rooted in him, Jesus power comes to and through us as well and we are blessed to bear fruit in all seasons!