Jesus words in today’s reading reminds us that all people, including religious leaders, can be seduced by status. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
Gospel Reflections
‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart…and your neighbour as yourself’
In this reading Jesus responds to the Pharisees by drawing together all the commandments under two headings: love of God and love of neighbour. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar – and to God what belongs to God’
Jesus’ response to the Pharisees’ trap shows us that, while we cannot cut ourselves off from the affairs of the world, we should never compromise our beliefs and values. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Many are called, but few are chosen’
This week’s reading suggests that while God’s invitation is indeed directed to all, we must positively respond to that invitation and make changes in our lives. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘The kingdom of God will be given to a people who will produce its fruit’
This parable contains a warning to listen and to respond, to produce a harvest of good works for God. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Which of the two did the father’s will?’
In this parable of the two sons, Jesus points out that many religious people pledge their loyalty in words but do not follow this up with actions. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘The last will be first, and the first, last’
This week’s parable about the labourers in the vineyard is an invitation to understand that the ways of God are not bound or limited by human standards. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Forgive your brother from your heart’
In this week’s reading we are challenged to behave not as human beings do but in imitation of the very mercy of God. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven’
This week’s reading focuses on ‘community’ and tells us that Christians have a responsibility to speak the truth in difficult circumstances. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Anyone who loses his life for my sake will find it’
The lesson for Peter in this reading is a lesson for all. Whatever our position in the Church we must be open to the unexpected ways of God, ready to learn new things, not to prefer ‘man’s way’ to God’s. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.