MONTHLY DEVOTIONAL FOR 16 DECEMBER
December 16, 2025
FEAST OF SAINT OLYMPIAS THE DEACONESS – 17th DECEMBER
December 17, 2025
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
16 DECEMBER, 2025
Matthew 21:28-32
Jesus said to the chief priests and elders:
“What do you think? A man had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’
He answered, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went.
The man went to the second and said the same. He answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but he did not go.
Which of the two did the will of his father?”
They answered, “The first.”
Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you.
When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did.
Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.”
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
This parable confronts the gap between words and actions. True obedience is not found in polite promises but in lives that ultimately choose to do the Father’s will. The first son begins in refusal yet repents and acts; the second speaks correctly but remains unchanged. Jesus reminds us that God values repentance, humility, and conversion more than appearances of righteousness. Those once considered far from God enter the Kingdom because they respond with changed hearts, while those confident in their status risk missing it if they refuse to repent. Faith is proven not by what we say, but by what we do.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, You look beyond my words and see my heart. Give me the grace to repent when I fail and the courage to act on Your will. Free me from empty promises and self-righteousness. Help me to live a faith that is humble, obedient, and sincere, so that my life may truly reflect Your love and truth. Amen
