Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro
In Sunday's Gospel, Jesus tells a parable about two sons. One is smooth-talking but doesn’t do what he’s asked. The other may argue but eventually does what he’s asked.
Jesus makes his point: sinners initially said no but then had a change of heart and pursued a God-like life. But the religious leaders, Jesus noted, say yes to God but continue unrepentant in self-centered attitudes and behaviors.
So, who are the disciples of Jesus? Those who ask forgiveness, have a “change of heart” and do the will of God as best they can in their daily routine. Think about it.
If you’re working to pay the bills, but making time to be with your family when they need you, blessed are you. You may never own much, but heaven will be yours.
If you are overwhelmed caring for a sick or frail loved one but you try your best to make a loving home, blessed are you. One day your sorrow will be transformed into joy.
If you happily serve at a soup kitchen, shop for the housebound, help a youngster with a school assignment; if you befriend the uncool, the unpopular, the lost, blessed are you. Count God among your friends.
If you refuse to take shortcuts when it comes to doing what is right, if you refuse to compromise your integrity and ethics, refuse to rationalize that ‘everyone does it,’ blessed are you – you will triumph.
If you try to understand the perspective of the other person and find a way to make things work for the good; if you’re frustrated because you are loving the unlovable and forgiving the undeserving, blessed are you. God loves and forgives you.
If you spend time listening and consoling; if you manage to heal wounds and build bridges; if others see in you goodness, graciousness, joy and serenity; if you can see the good in everyone and seek good for everyone, blessed are you. You are the face of God in our midst.
My friends, Jesus exhorts us to be like the son who eventually does what’s he’s asked. Yes we may complain now and then, but do the will of God, as best we can figure it out, as we go about our daily activities.
Remember: today is the only day we can count on to do the right thing.
Rejoice and be glad, Jesus says. In the end, heaven is yours.
