What is Your Opinion?
A Reflection for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Brent Smith, Director of Adult Faith Formation & Evangelization
Which of the two did his father’s will? Having put forth a short parable about parenting, Jesus asks the authorities of the Jewish people a simple question. According to the social standards of the time (as well as our own), parents have the right to enlist children in the family business. When those kids are grown, they have a right to decide for themselves whether such work is worthwhile.
The father’s choice of words seems highly formal and somewhat odd. Would they not have made a previous agreement about both sons laboring in the vineyard? What enterprise or entertainment would tempt them away from the vineyard? Do those young men have an understanding about the dignity and potential of a lucrative crop meant for winemaking?
St. Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, enumerates the characteristics of a heart set aflame for Jesus Christ and his offer of eternal salvation. Love that consoles… the indwelling of the Holy Spirit… a willingness to feel another’s pain and provide support… In short, “Have in you the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus, who … emptied himself” (Phil 2:5-7). He is the true son of the Heavenly Father, who united his human will with the divine will.
While Jesus had an advantage in living a life of merciful love – free from sin and ready to extend himself for the good of others – the Sacraments can mend our hearts and become more mindful of the “entering the kingdom of God” (Matthew 21:31).
Eucharistic heart of Jesus, convince of us our place as laborers within your vineyard.
Forgive the sins and errors of my youth. In your constant love and goodness, remember me, Lord! (Ps. 25:7; Good New Translation)
*Painting by Elin Danielson-Gambogi, "In the Vineyard" (1898, Finland)