TUESDAY 13th DECEMBER 2022
Matthew 21, 28–32:
“Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people, “What do you think?” A man had two sons. He came to the first and said to him, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today. He said to him, ‘I do not want to. But then he came to his senses and went. He went to the second and said the same thing. He said to him, “I am going, sir. But he didn’t go. Which of the two did what the father wanted? They answered: The first one.”
Words fly and deeds remain. And Jesus, in another passage of the Gospel, tells us: “By their fruits you will know them”.
Wrapped up in so many coloured lights, in so many parties and finery, in so much food and drink, in so much consumption and so much waste, I do not know if we will be able to discover the real Christmas.
We are children of our time. Almost without realising it, we can replace the Baby Jesus with Father Christmas.
We can change the poor manger in Bethlehem for a big sack full of presents and a delicious Christmas basket.
Today’s gospel is a call for authenticity. It is good to stop and reflect. As a Christian you are invited to work in the Lord’s vineyard.
Do I say “yes” with my mouth and then “no” with my deeds?
May your deeds correct the “no” of your mouth and may it not be the other way around.
Good day and work with coherence in the vineyard of the Lord.
Antonio Sanjuan Cmf
