In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus presents the chief priests and elders with the parable of the man who had two sons. The father had vineyards. He asked the oldest son to go and work in the vineyards. However, this son absolutely refused to do so. However, later on in the day, he decided that he would go and work as his father had requested.

Later on in the day, the father also ordered his second son to go and work in the vineyards. This son agreed to do as his father asked. However, after he left his father, he decided he would not go to the vineyard. He did not tell his father that he had changed his mind.

Jesus told this parable because he knew that his listeners were trying to trap him. He bluntly told the elders that tax collectors and prostitutes would get to heaven before they would. Can you imagine their reaction? How dare Jesus say that to them! These were men who were faithful to the temple and to the Jewish customs and regulations!

Do we also “play games” with God at times? Do we ask God a question and hope for a particular answer? When we ask Jesus a question, is it a trick question? Or when we ask, do we wait expectantly and listen for God’s response?

It is our choice! What will we do today? May we pray for open and listening hearts! God will answer!

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