This week’s readings explore the theme of our enduring inheritance in God. The first reading reminds us that, of earthly treasures: “All is vanity”. The psalm counsels us to realise “the shortness of our life that we may gain wisdom of heart” and encourages us to keep our gaze fixed on God for “in every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.” The second reading urges us to seek the things that are above, where Christ is, and that “the life you have is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3).

Vineyard owners in the Barossa Valley recently discovered ancestor vines which were planted between 1843 and 1847. Almost miraculously, these ancient vines are still yielding fruit and, indeed, still producing exquisite wines.

Wine makers often speak of the four essential ingredients of wine-making: the varietal – the specific variety of grape used; the vineyard – soil, climate and related factors; the vintage – the year in which the wine was made; and the vintner – the wine maker’s skills and experience. These components are all essential in crafting a wine of quality and distinction. In addition, another critical factor is the aging process – a series of complex chemical reactions over time as the wine is stored. The finest wines will improve with age.

This is a beautiful metaphor for our spiritual journey. Like the intimate intertwining of the various ingredients of wine-making, we are formed and shaped by grace as we open ourselves more and more to God.

In the gospel reading, Jesus tells the parable of the rich man who stores up treasure, but in vain, for he soon dies. Jesus advises the crowd that “a man’s life is not made secure by what he owns” (Luke 12:14).

St Benedict always encouraged his followers to be open to ongoing conversion. Growing in God is a process of continually listening. God makes us aware of new insights and ways of being. At times, the process may seem hidden or unexpected. But gradually, we discover our identity and vocation as a follower of Christ.

Throughout his life French artist Paul Cezanne painted a mountain, Mont Sainte-Victoire, in his hometown of Aix-en-Provence in 36 oil paintings and 45 water colours. At different points, he depicted Mont Sainte-Victoire differently, amidst a changing landscape of trees, bushes and houses. 

Cezanne’s earlier depictions are bold and striking. However, the dramatic quality of his earlier paintings gives way to a gentler, more ethereal depiction as Cezanne matured. Despite the differences, each painting has been praised as a masterpiece of perspective – the mountain seems both near and within our grasp, as well as just beyond our immediate reach. It is a striking image for our lives: we live within the shaping hand of God’s grace. Within the depths of our being, God is at work to create our lives as a vintage of exquisite distinction.

Sophie Clements

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