Third Sunday of Lent

I recently visited the city of New Orleans and heard a parish community recite a prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel at the conclusion of Mass.  The prayer asks Saint Michael for "protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil."   I appreciated the reminder to be aware of evil in these unsettled times before I headed towards the door.  I also appreciated having another helper interceding on my behalf.

The parable told by Jesus in today's Gospel reading reminds me of that prayer and the heavenly protection that is offered to each of us.  Once more I am appreciative of the reminder, in this case through the parable, that we have a protective gardener helping us and enouraging us against the evils of our day.  This season of Lent invites us to tend to the wickedness of our lives, to prune and toe fertilize where needed to lead fruitful lives each day.