Transformed – teen devotion – March 23, 2025

One key truth: Jesus loves us and patiently works with us to grow our faith that trusts in him.

Then Jesus told this parable: “A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’
“‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’”
Luke 13:6-9

Always Present, Always Patient

We’ve all heard the saying, “Patience is a virtue.” What it really means is that being able to wait or endure something without getting frustrated is a valuable quality. And let’s be honest—patience isn’t always easy. Whether it’s waiting for your phone to upload a video, waiting for your food at a restaurant, or waiting for grades to be posted, it’s not always simple to stay calm. Most of us, no matter our age, can struggle with this.

But here’s the good news: God is not like us when it comes to patience. As we continue exploring “Open Door Policies” this Lenten season, we’re reminded that God is not only always present in our lives, but he is also incredibly patient with us. This is a huge comfort because, let’s face it, we aren’t always patient ourselves. When things don’t go as planned, we can easily become frustrated. We want things to happen now—whether it’s instant gratification with technology or faster answers to life’s struggles.

Praise God that he doesn’t treat us the way we often treat each other or ourselves. In our Bible reading, we see how God deals with us. He’s not harsh or quick to judge. Instead, he’s loving, patient, and kind. In the parable, the gardener says, “‘Sir, leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it’” (Luke 13:8). When we fail, God doesn’t give up on us. He doesn’t throw us away or turn his back on us. Instead, he loves us—because of Jesus. He uses his Word and sacraments to help us grow and become stronger in our faith. He nurtures us back to spiritual health and keeps us close to him.

So, this week, focus on growing your faith. And when you mess up—and you will—remember the mercy of God, who is always present and always patient. This brings us incredible joy and peace.

Prayer:
Fill us with your Word, Lord God, so we can rest in the assurance that we are yours and you are ours. Let your goodness work deeply in our hearts, and help us share it with those near and far. Amen.