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Biblical reflections
Fr. Emanuele Borelli, SX
Fr. Emanuele Borelli, SX

A humble heart to pay attention to your call

Listening to the Spirit

Lord, grant us a humble heart to pay attention to your call. Make us see that our life has meaning when we follow you, a true source of joy. Amen.

Listening to the Word

Matthew 21: 28-32

Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people: “What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ He said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterwards changed his mind and went. The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go. Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you: tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before 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.”

Reflection

The words of the Father: "My child, go the vineyard" are resonating in our hearts. Your father, so proud of you, is coming close to you with a purpose.
It is neither the order of a boss nor the injunction of the law to keep the commandments. It is rather the affectionate approach and invitation of somebody who is affirming a true bond of love and unity. The father wishes goodness and desires joy for his children; the vineyard, well kept, foresees an abundant harvest: "Go, my son, and we will get new wine for the family celebrations!" 
This man who seems to be the same as in the parable of the Prodigal Son just wishes his sons to learn the secret of happiness and joy, which is hidden in his big calloused hands used to life in the fields.
But the little word of the young man shows so much resistance. Life is full of so many appeals; certainly, the idea to go into the field is not appealing and he is right; he knows that blisters will appear in his soft skin; unless there is a good reason one would prefer to escape.
As we grow there is a time when we want to assert our independence; we want to follow our way while taking distance from the people who surely love us the most. However, while claiming our freedom and disengaging, still the presence of pa' is there with the same kindness inviting us to be together on the farm. It just happens only when your presumption or foolishness puts you down, will you recognize your roots and proudly go to the vineyard.
Lord, grant us a humble heart to pay attention to your call. Make us see that our life has meaning when we follow you, a true source of joy. Amen.


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