Current Homily Series
Parables are picture stories that use images that would easily be understood by those who heard the parable. Parables were a common teaching tool at the time of Jesus. So, when Jesus used parables, he was telling stories in a way that was familiar to his audience.
Jesus used parables to talk about the Kingdom of God or the kingdom of heaven. The parables that he told were meant to create an emotional response or describe a moral requirement that his followers would need to demonstrate to be part of God’s kingdom.
Week 1
“God lavishes abundant grace
on everyone”
“Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out…to hire laborers for his vineyard.” This vineyard is a description or comparison to the kingdom of heaven. The workers hired first are the people who began following the Lord early in life, made sacrifices, and lived out their faith, all the time hoping their reward would be great. But what about the late comers, the people who worked the least? They are deserving of the grace, generosity, love, and mercy of the landowner, who I hope you have guessed by now is God. They are deserving, no matter what time they come to the vineyard (Jesus’ Kingdom).”
Matthew 20:1-16a
Week 2
“Actions speak louder
than words”
“The first son says no but does yes, the second son says yes but does no. The first son is to be commended over the second son because, as we might say, actions speak louder than words. Saying the right thing without doing the right thing counts for nothing. In other words, action is the true test of obedience. So, on that level the parable is easy to understand. But there is more to it than that. Jesus is, in fact, making a provocative statement about the failure of the religious leaders who are the very people challenging his authority.”
Matthew 21:28-32
Week 3
“Be selfless, not selfish”
“The parable of the Tenants teaches us about faithfulness and obedience, and it reminds us that God’s kingdom is not about being selfish but rather about being selfless. If we can’t meet that test, no matter how wealthy or popular or smart we are, “the Kingdom of God will be taken away and given to people who will produce its fruit.”
Just like every important relationship in our lives, our relationship with God requires time and attention. How would you describe your own spiritual life? Is it limited to going to Mass on Sunday or praying only when you need something? While those are part of building that relationship with God, it may not be enough. How about taking time every day to pray in thanksgiving for the blessings that God had showered upon you? How about showing gratitude for what you have by sharing your time and talents with others who may be in need?”
Matthew 21:33-43