As a native of Western New York, I have been making the six-hour drive to and from for decades. For long stretches of the trip there is nothing to look at but nature, so I have come to closely focus on the trees: the colors, textures, lights, and shadows. I study how they look in the different seasons: when they are bare, holding snow, coming to life, or fully bloomed.

Deeper observation reveals that some trees are healthy and others are not. Many have been invaded by parasites, an enemy who is working to suck the goodness out of its host, indifferent to the consequences. Parasites invade an unsuspecting environment, and not only destroy individual trees but ultimately impact the entire forest community. Some invaders can be thick, hairy, ugly vines that, if allowed to mature, climb upwards strangling the trunk and hanging triumphantly off the branches of even the most majestic trees. Other assailants cover the ground with poisonous thorns and prickers threatening all passersby, making the woods uncomfortable, unpleasant and less beautiful. They spread and block the way requiring the natives to find a different path.

Poor cell phone and radio reception during those drives has left me time to reflect on the parallels between invasive plants and sin. All plants start as seeds and seem insignificant just as our small sins may. But left untended, they grow stronger, bolder, and start to become accepted as part of the landscape of our life. If it seems too daunting to imagine chopping away at your big vines of sin, perhaps start small. Diligently watching for sins, just as weeds, and then eliminating them early is far easier than when they have taken firm root.

Whether we boldly grab an ax or cautiously begin with pruners, we will only be successful when we ask for help. Jesus is waiting patiently for us to invite him into our messy garden. Through prayer and the Sacrament of Confession, He shows us the way to defeat our sins so we can be fresh and beautiful again.

Scripture: Psalm 1:1-3 Where is your tree planted?

Call to Action: Take full advantage of the Sacrament of Confession to enjoy the full life God has designed for you.