Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

The immediate meaning of this passage is of course judgment day. But it also applies to the predestined. God chastises those whom he loves. He refines us as gold is refined in the fire, burning away every impurity through the action of the Holy Spirit. Instead of constantly complaining to God about every suffering and trial in our life let us rejoice in our innermost being that Our Lord thinks enough of us to prune us. It is only the fruitful tree which gets pruned.

Father, thank you for the trials and tribulations in my life which have served only to bring me closer to you. I am sorry for having complained so loudly and so often about them. Help me to have faith in the midst of them, even to rejoice to be considered worthy to receive them. Amen.