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“Which of the two did his father’s will?” (Matt 21:29).
Zep 3:1-2, 9-13; Matt 21:28-32
An invitation requires a response. RSVP politely asks for a reply. Will you be joining us, or not? A challenge puts us on the spot. Are you with us, or not? Not to decide is to decide. An invitation remains open until we say yes or no.
The call to discipleship is more than a general invitation, but a word addressed to us personally. How we respond will define us for the rest of our lives. Our response is more than a matter of politeness, but one of life or death.
Jesus tells a short parable about two sons who were asked by their father to help in the vineyard. One said yes and did not go. The other said no but then went. Which one did his father’s will?
Good people claimed they were doing God’s will but then judged and rejected their neighbors. Poor sinners initially said no to God but then said yes and changed their lives. Late comers were welcome. Others, scandalized by God’s generosity, stayed outside rather than associate with sinners. They excluded themselves from the gift being offered because of pride and self-righteousness.
The gospels make clear that the first visitors to the newborn Jesus were the lowliest and most rejected of society, simple shepherds wandering the hillsides with their smelly, bleating sheep and goats. But they knew an invitation when they received one and responded with awe and humility. They are our guides to Christmas.
