Rooted in Trust: Growing Toward Living Water

The readings for this homily

Father Mark Baron, MIC, invites us to ask the vital question that unites today’s readings and the responsorial psalm: Where is your heart rooted? Isaiah portrays the faithful believer as a tree planted beside flowing waters, its roots drawing nourishment so that it remains green even in drought. In contrast, a heart that trusts in flesh becomes a barren bush, exposed to the scorching heat and light of the desert.

The theme of trust pervades the Divine Mercy revelations of St. Faustina. To trust someone, we must recognize three qualities: the ability to help; the wisdom to guide; and the goodness that cares. Father Mark likens this to a physician — trained, wise, and compassionate — who earns our confidence. In the same way, God is all‑powerful, all‑wise, and all‑good; recognizing these attributes allows us to lean on Him, opening our hearts to His mercy.

Trust in God is not merely abstract; it finds concrete expression in the Sacraments. Baptism immerses us in the living water promised by Scripture, initiating us into the grace that sustains our spiritual growth. The Eucharist continually refreshes that same water, while the Sacrament of Reconciliation clears the soil of our hearts so new roots may take hold.

During this Lenten season, Fr. Mark urges us to examine our own roots. Are we seeking security in material success, as the rich man of the parable did, or are we planting ourselves beside the divine stream, like Lazarus whose name means “God has helped”? He calls us to pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal the blind spots that keep us from true reliance on the Father.