Thomas Lima csc –
Readings: Zeph 3:1-2, 9-13; Mt 21:28-32
Our attitude and response to God’s invitation and his daily interventions in our lives will determine what type of Christians we are. The parable of the two sons in the gospel reveals that sometimes we are like the second son, who said yes to the father’s invitation only with his lips but did not do what his father commanded him. In many ways, we deceive ourselves by assuming that we are better than others because we are Church-going Christians. Often, we have good intentions and action plans but in the course of time, we fail to execute and actualize what we have planned.
We are therefore invited to walk the talk by putting into practice what we say as the first reading says, “we shall do no injustice and speak no lies.” One of the primary reasons why the word of God does not bear fruits in our lives is because of our attitude of self-righteousness. We presume that we know the word of God very well. We do not need repentance and change.
However, the first son in the parable tells us that we need to discern well and spend enough time to reflect on the word of God. To say yes to God and work in his vineyard is a big challenge. May we be given the grace and wisdom to do the Father’s will like Christ despite our fear and reluctance to fulfil the demands of God’s word.