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Daily Devotions for the Advent and Christmas Seasons

Thursday, December 3

Matthew 21:33-46

by James Caldwell

“I tell you, then, that the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit.”

In my mind, that one verse from the gospel reading explains the messages in the alternative readings for today (Amos 4:6-13 [ read it ] and 2 Peter 3:11-18 [ read it ] ) in a very simple way. If we don’t take care of the planet and its ecosystem, if we don’t encourage everyone to work to produce fruit—not just our food but everything else we make— sustainably, then our planet will be taken from us and given to those who will take care of it.

No matter who is at fault, whether it is the tenant farmers in the parable or the priests who knew the parable was directed at them or our political leaders today or some faceless corporation, the result is the same, ultimate failure. All can prosper together with our communities, though, whether they are the Palestinians in Gaza, the bankers and financiers on Wall Street, the insurance companies, or a local landlord. We can all prosper when we make sure every­one can contribute their talents and everyone experiences the rewards of a healthy ecosystem, a healthy community, and a healthy life.

Prayer

I pray that we may all learn the joys of working together for mutual benefit and experience the fruits of our work in healthy and regenerative societies. I pray that we can rejuvenate the planet and enable it to be a healthy garden, a joyful place with diverse fruits. Amen.