HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE 3RD WEEK OF ADVENT

Homily for Tuesday of the 3rd week of Advent

Zephaniah 3:1-2,9-13; Matthew 21:28-32

In the first reading of today, the prophet Zephaniah addresses the rebelliousness of the inhabitant of Jerusalem to God. He declared: "Ah, soiled, defiled, oppressing city! It has listened to no voice; it has accepted no correction. It has not trusted in the Lord; it has not drawn near to its God" (Zeph 3:1-2). 

Friends in Christ, sin is a rebellion against God. It is a defilement or pollution. A sinner does not listen to the voice of God. He does not trust in God nor does he draw close to God. He rejects God and remains answerable to himself alone. 

Beloved in Christ, the season of Advent continues to remind us of the coming of the saviour, Jesus Christ, who will renew the face of the earth. He will effect a new speech in the hearts of the people (Zeph 3:9); that which will enable them in service to be in concordance with God. 

Dearest brothers and sisters in Christ, how disposed are you to the sacrament of penance, that your heart may be cleansed by Christ Jesus from the stain of sin and rebelliousness? 

In the Gospel reading we hear from Jesus, the narrative of the two sons" (Mt 21:28). One of the sons, when requested by the father to go and work in his vineyard, rudely refused where as the other son promised his father obedience. Later on, we are told that the first son repented and when to work, whereas the other son who initially promised obedience, did not go to the vineyard of the father. 

Theologians interpreted the narrative to mean that the first son represents the tax collectors and harlots, while the second son represents the chief priests, elders, scribes, and Pharisees. 

The tax collectors and harlots were bad people but via their belief in the teachings of John the Baptist, they repented and turned new lives. Hence,  they will go into the kingdom of God. However,  the chief priests, elders,  scribe, and Pharisees appeared good but did not believe in John the Baptist's preaching on repentance. Hence, they never turned new lives. 

The parable instructs us that promises are not enough to take the place of performance. Fine words are never a substitute for fine deeds. Promises without actions are words in futility. Faith without good work is simply dead on arrival. 

Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, on the day of baptism, confirmation, ordination,  religious profession, marriage,  etc. We say a big 'yes' to the mandates of Christ Jesus. How far have we backed that verbal affirmation with practical commitments? 

We pray that God may grant us the grace to match our words with actions and deeds. May God bless his words in our hearts. Amen. 

Have a blessed day 

Fr.  Remi osj