My Dear Friends in Christ,

Today’s readings remind us that God does not ask for perfect words, but for a willing heart and a faithful life. We are invited to turn back to God, walk humbly with Christ, and let our “Yes” to Him be seen in our actions.

The first reading from the prophet Ezekiel gives us a beautiful message of conversion and hope. God does not condemn us simply because of our past; what matters is whether we are willing to turn back to Him and begin again. Ezekiel says that when the wicked person turns away from sin and begins to do what is right, that person will live. This reminds us that no one is beyond the mercy of God. Sometimes we say, “I have made too many mistakes; God cannot forgive me.” But God is always ready to receive the repentant heart. St. Augustine, who experienced his own long journey of conversion, prayed: “Late have I loved you, Beauty ever ancient, ever new.” His life teaches us that it is never too late to return to God. Do not allow your past to prevent you from beginning again with God.

The second reading takes us deeper by presenting Jesus Christ as the model of humility and self-giving. St. Paul tells us to have the same mind that was in Christ Jesus, who humbled Himself, became a servant, and was obedient even to death on the cross. Christianity is not simply about coming to church, praying, or knowing the right words; it is about learning to put others before ourselves. St. Teresa of Calcutta expressed this spirit beautifully when she says, “I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.” True humility is not thinking that we have no value; it is recognizing our value while being willing to serve others. The closer we become to Christ, the more willing we should be to serve, forgive, sacrifice, and think of others.

In the Gospel, Jesus gives us the parable of the two sons. The first says “No” to his father but later changes his mind and goes to work; the second says “Yes” but never goes. Jesus asks, “Which of the two did his father’s will?” The answer is clear: the one who actually went. This challenges us because it is possible to say many beautiful things about God without actually doing His will. We can say, “Lord, I love you,” but fail to forgive; say, “I trust God,” but refuse to surrender; say, “I will serve,” but never serve. Pope Francis reminded us that “faith is not something decorative... it is to be lived.” So today, Jesus gives us more than a message. He gives us an invitation.

This week, let us choose one concrete way to say “Yes” to God. By forgiving someone we have been holding a grudge against, or reaching out to someone who is lonely, or returning to prayer, or going to confession, or serving someone in need, or simply being more patient with the people God has placed in our lives. Do not leave today saying only, “Yes, Lord.” Leave here ready to act. If there is something God has been asking you to do, do not postpone it. Go into your home, your workplace, your family, and your community, and let your life become your answer to God.

May our “Yes” to God not remain on our lips, but become visible in our hands, our choices, our forgiveness, and our love. Amen.

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