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Gospel
Matthew 21:28-32
Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you

Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people, ‘What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He went and said to the first, “My boy, you go and work in the vineyard today.” He answered, “I will not go,” but afterwards thought better of it and went. The man then went and said the same thing to the second who answered, “Certainly, sir,” but did not go. Which of the two did the father’s will?’ ‘The first’ they said. Jesus said to them, ‘I tell you solemnly, tax collectors and prostitutes are making their way into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you, a pattern of true righteousness, but you did not believe him, and yet the tax collectors and prostitutes did. Even after seeing that, you refused to think better of it and believe in him.’

Short Reflection

This passage reveals a clash not of intellect, but of integrity. The religious leaders approach Jesus not with a genuine desire to understand, but with a trap meant to undermine His authority. Jesus, perceiving their dishonesty, responds with a question that exposes the true state of their hearts. Their dilemma is not a lack of information, but a refusal to commit to the truth they already know. They calculate the political and social consequences of each answer, choosing the cowardly "We do not know" to protect their own position. Jesus' refusal to answer reveals a profound spiritual principle: God does not unveil the depths of His truth to those who are more concerned with self-preservation than with genuine faith.

Question for Reflection

Are there areas in my spiritual life where I am avoiding a clear commitment to the truth because I fear the consequences or the cost of discipleship?

Short Prayer

Lord of Truth, save me from a calculating faith that seeks safety over sincerity. Give me the courage to acknowledge what I know to be true about you, even when it is difficult or costly. May my heart be so open and honest before you that I am always worthy of receiving your revelation. Amen.

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