Parables of Holy Week
“A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ‘Son, go, work today in my vineyard.’ He answered and said, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he regretted it and went. Then he came to the second and said likewise. And he answered and said, ‘I go, sir.’ But he did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” Matthew 21:28-31
The Parable of the Two Sons is a study in contrasts. Both sons were directed to work in the vineyard. They set aside their plans for the day and went to work for dad (grumble, grumble). If “orders” came daily, perhaps this task was especially distasteful to them. The first son responded, “Forget it!” Likely, Dad was taken aback by his son’s defiance. “Children, obey your parents in the Lord for this is right.” (Ephesians 6:1) The second son sounded compliant, “I will go!” and even added “Sir!” Dad likely thought, “That’s more like it!” However, things are not always what they appear. The first son, so unwilling, had second thoughts, repented, and went—willingly. The second son, agreeable, despised his father’s request and did not go—ever.
Are you sometimes like the second son? “Yes, God; yes, Father; yes, Sir!” I go to worship often, even the midweek Lenten services. I give my share. I send my children to confirmation class. However, what happens behind the scenes? Neglect of your children? Misusing the name of the Lord? Greedily seeking money? Carrying a grudge?
Or will you be like the first son? At first, you may have said, “No way, God! I’m doing it my way!” That’s the pattern for every sin. Yet, now you turn back to him in repentance. Amazingly, the heavenly Father gives us time to recognize our sin, repent—receiving forgiveness through Jesus—and then go forward serving with a new heart! “The Lord is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)
The merciful Lord is pleased when you live in repentance, receiving forgiveness in Christ, and serving with a new heart.
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Amen.