Christians have an obligation to be good citizens. But God can and will call on us for a response to our duty to him, which comes first.

Today’s Gospel reading provides a definite warning for Christians of any age. We must take the Kingdom–and our participation in it–very seriously.

Today’s readings from the “Book of Isaiah” and the “Gospel of Matthew” remind us to bring forth good fruit from God’s vineyard–a harvest of justice.

The first son who thought better of his initial refusal and eventually went to work truly carried out his father’s will. Those who sin can change.

Life often isn’t fair, and people frequently blame God for that. But in terms of Jesus’ story from today’s Gospel, God’s fairness is different from ours.

We all must examine our consciences. How often would you or I forgive an offense from the same person? “As many as seven times?” as Peter asks.