In the first reading (Wis 12:13, 16-19) the author states that there is no other god beside the Lord who cares for all so He has no need to show He has unjustly condemn. God’s might is the source of His justice. He can be lenient because He has mastery over all things. He shows His might when His power is disbelieved. He rebukes temerity in those who know Him. He judges with clemency and governs with lenience although He is the master of might. He taught His people by example that the just must be kind. He gave hope to His children that He would permit repentance for their sins. Read more here.

Throughout the centuries, and in all cultures, trees have been a symbol of the fruitfulness, dignity and potential of all life. In the first chapter of Genesis, God invited our first ancestors to eat of the Tree of Life and all the fruit bearing trees. We human beings are like trees, stretching our limbs outward and upward to embrace and to touch. Anchored on the ground, we stand upright. Trees have always been a sign of hope; they spring forth with new buds each year. They also represent healing; quite often their leaves or their fruit bring us health of body and spirit. Trees literally lift up our spirits.