Another way we might reflect on last Sunday’s Parable of the Two Sons in Matthew’s Gospel is through the lens of change. One son says no to working in the field and then changes his mind and goes to work in the vineyard. The other says yes and, as we know, does not go.
Jesus does not tell us why the sons changed their minds. We don’t know. We can only make assumptions about what happened in each son. However, we do know that something changed.
Many of us long for change - change in our church, our country, and the world. The negativity around us can quickly
immobilise us; there is much to be concerned about. We can become overwhelmed and lose hope that change is possible.
Today, we are reminded that change is possible - that we can all change! If we listen to our hearts and long for change, the good news is that with God, change is possible. However, notice how the Gospel reminds us that the catalyst for change comes
from within. Outer circumstances can be the catalyst for change in us. However, real change, genuine transformation, comes from within. The genesis of change is buried in our hearts.
When we begin to sift through our hearts, the deepest parts of ourselves, we will find great and noble desires. These desires say something to us about our hopes, the change we desire
to realise the fullness that we are constantly being invited to by God.
Take time today to consider what desires are lying in your heart. In what ways do these desires point to the change you want to experience in your life? What might hold you back? Pray for the grace to realise the transformation you desire today.
Reflections by Fr Russell Pollitt SJ
