Righteousness – Matthew 21:28-32 Reflection
If you are like me, in your past, you frequently suppressed what the Lord suggested because you had something else to do. However, each time, God’s unconditional love allows us to return to the routine of working in the vineyard. Ignoring worldly challenges is not unique due to its appeal to our senses. Worldliness affects everyone, but once we acknowledge its influence, we can change our minds and return to the Father. The less we sin and lower the size of our sins, the more we can focus on righteousness.” Righteousness calls us toward the truths of belief, forgiveness, compassion, empathy, mercy, and helping others. Practicing these truths lets us gain peace and courage, so we do or be what the Lord suggests.
The Chief Priests Ask Jesus by What Right Does He Act in This Way by James Tissot (full-resolution painting)
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 21:28-32 – Scripture*
The Parable of the Two Sons
28 “What do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 He answered, ‘I will not’; but later he changed his mind and went. 30 The father went to the second and said the same; and he answered, ‘I go, sir’; but he did not go. 31 Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32 For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him; and even after you saw it, you did not change your minds and believe him.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 21:28-32 Reflection – Righteousness.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative payer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 21 passage.
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