By John Desing 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. It is unfortunate to notice that our indifferent hearts and lukewarm relationship with others do not reveal that we belong to Christ.
The parable of the two sons teaches us that there are also good followers of Christ outside the church, who practice the values and principles of Christ.
Just like the second son who said yes to God’s invitation only with his lips but did not do what God 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 as time passes, 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 are better than others, or 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 despite our fear and reluctance to fulfil the demands of God’s word.