Which of the two did his father’s will?

Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Lucy, Virgin and Martyr
Readings: ZEP 3:1-2, 9-13; PS 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19 AND 23; MT 21:28-32
Notes: Today’s gospel portion is taken from the series of three parables in Matthew that consider the difference between what we say and what we do.

• The Parable of the Two Sons – Saying Yes instead of Doing Yes.
• The Parable of the Tenants – Taking responsibility and instead seizing ownership.
• The Parable of the Wedding Feast – Being invited and refusing to come.

These are the things within our power.

1. Doing YES.
2. Taking proper responsibility for the kingdom.
3. Accepting the gracious invitation to the wedding feast of the Lord.

This is the Father’s will.

Do not be afraid.

The Lord provides the strength, the wisdom and the power to do right and resist wrong.
He knows:

The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
Come, O Lord, do not delay; forgive the sins of your people.

Reflection

If you are a little girl named Lucy, you need not bite your tongue in disappointment. Your patron is a genuine authentic heroine, first class, an abiding inspiration for you and for all Christians. The moral courage of the young Sicilian martyr shines forth as a guiding light, just as bright for today’s youth as it was in A.D. 304. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-lucy/

First reading
Who shall take refuge in the name of the LORD: the remnant of Israel. They shall do no wrong and speak no lies; Nor shall there be found in their mouths a deceitful tongue; They shall pasture and couch their flocks with none to disturb them.

Responsorial Psalm
The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

Alleluia Verse
Come, O Lord, do not delay; forgive the sins of your people.

Gospel Portion
The Parable of the Two Sons.

Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people: “What is your opinion?
Which of the two did his father’s will?

Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you [instead of you].

When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.

• Believe!
• Change your mind.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry