|
The chief priests and the elders answered Christ's question correctly. The first son though refusing to obey his father later changed his mind and worked in the vineyard. None of us is satisfied with the mere lip service of the second son. Empty promises never get the work done. In contrast to the prostitutes and public sinners who repented at the preaching of John the Baptist, the priests and elders remained attached to their external observance of the law and refused to be moved by John's exhortation to examine their lives and rid themselves of their mere lip-service to the law of love.
St Paul in his Letter to the Philippians points out what following Christ means in practice. Are we prepared to strive to act without mere lip-service? We live in a world that has changed much. Selfishness and greed have forsaken good principles. The world needs people who will live by the Gospel values. Are we ready for this challenge?
Father, Your Son set an example for us in presenting Himself as the Son of the carpenter when He was really Your Son from eternity. He allowed Himself to be condemned as a criminal and a disturber of the peace. His joy was to do Your will always. Grant that we may be moved to serve You in sincerity and truth.
|
|
DAILY OFFERING
|
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
|
|
PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
|
INTENTION
For children and youths in Catholic Schools, that in the course of their training they may encounter strong and wise educators who will help them to grow in their religious faith and healthy attitudes to life.
Elaboration
|
|
