Daily Gospel Reflection for October 4, 2020 - 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 21:33-43 - 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time

There's no sugar-coating it: This is a harsh parable. Jesus takes His listeners and their ancestors to task for not believing the message of repentance brought to their forebears by the prophets -- the same message Jesus brings to them. Instead, they refuse to listen and even kill the prophets, even as His listeners will ultimately call for Jesus to be killed.

Quoting Psalm 118, Jesus assures them that "the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." While those in power rejected the truth, it is only by building upon the foundation of truth that we will have life.

How often, in frustration, have we thought of saying to a rebellious child, "Fine. You won't take care of your things? I'll give them to someone who will appreciate them." Doesn't it feel like this is what Jesus is saying here? "You won't listen? You won't accept the Kingdom? Fine. I'll bring the Kingdom to someone who will."

Ponder:

Am I open to those who bring God's message, or do I shut them out -- or worse, strike back against them?

Pray:

Lord, help me today to appreciate the sacrifice that made possible the Kingdom You have built for all who love You. Help me to be worthy of that Kingdom.