Obedience Until Death Is What God Wants ~ by Ronnie Archer

Today's readings begin with Ezekiel, with the grumbling and complaining of the People of Israel... that the "Lord's way is not fair!" Then the prophet asks, "is it my ways that are unfair, or rather your ways that are unfair?" The people had sinned and they tried to place the blame elsewhere. When we sin, we are accountable for our own sins; but if we turn away from evil and decide to do what is right, we shall live.

The second reading from Paul to the Philippians tells us that we should have the same attitude as that of Christ. We should not act out of selfishness, or behave in such a way that brings us glory. We should not be only looking out for our interest. We should humble ourselves and regard others as more important than ourselves. People cannot see Christ Himself, but we are a manifestation of Christ. We can be a light to everyone, good and bad. By our behavior, others should look at us and see a revelation of Christ.

Matthew's Gospel for today gives us the parable of the father and his two sons. The father asked both sons to go out and work in the vineyard. The first son said flatly, that he would not go, but eventually changed his mind and went. The second son told the father "yes sir", but he did not go.

Even though the first son later changed his mind, which was good, neither of the sons did exactly as the father desired.

God wants us to be obedient immediately. We have to put our words, beliefs, etc. into action. That is what God takes delight in, obedience until death.



~ Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time ~