Matthew 21:28-32 NRSVue
28“What do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ 29He answered, ‘I will not,’ but later he changed his mind and went. 30The father went to the second and said the same, and he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but he did not go. 31Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him, and even after you saw it you did not change your minds and believe him.
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Reflection on Matthew 21:28-32
Inspiration from 2025-12-16 Daily Prayer
Today’s gospel passage reminds us that our actions frequently fail to match our declarations of faith. Jesus could see this often enough in the example of the chief priests and elders who frequently seemed by their words to be saying ‘yes’ to whatever Jesus was saying, but by their actions indicated that they were clearly intent on doing exactly the opposite.
Reflecting on this for a little while might teach me something about my own behaviour.
Further reflection
Jesus speaks this parable to me. I avoid applying it to others right now and simply accept Jesus' warmth as he sees how I have served. I listen for his invitation as he shows me where I hold back.
To live in the kingdom is to be ready to rub shoulders with all kinds. God's love is given freely and is accepted by many. I pray for a heart that is open to those who are not like me.
Well, which am I?
The first son sounds like a grump, hard to live with. His first reaction tended to be No. He probably suffered as much as anyone from his own grumpiness. But when the chips were down, you could trust him to help. The second son was the smiling sweet-talker. He liked to be in Daddy’s good books, but when he should have been working, he found something better to do – and probably a plausible excuse afterwards.
Lord, I would rather be a grumpy but reliable helper than a sweet-talker.