Our readings today focus on the rejection of God’s message set in parables.  In the first reading from Isaiah the story is of the vineyard owner who did everything he could to produce good grapes but despite his loving care the grapes are sour and bitter and he is forced to destroy the vineyard.

What more can God do to produce loving caring people?  Even though he gives us constant loving care and grace there are still those who turn away from him.

The Gospel reading is the same parable with more drama.  All the prophets sent by God are killed and he finally sends his son who he is sure will not be killed but he too is killed. 
God does not force us to accept him or his love.  God will not give to people who reject him what is meant for those who accept him.

In the reading from Isaiah and in the Gospel we are asked to examine our lives and to identify those areas where we can be more fruitful.  Being fruitful will require us to make sacrifices in our lives.  What sacrifices are we willing to make to be more fruitful?

In the second reading today from Philippians Paul says,

“Brothers and sisters: 
Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, 
by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, 
make your requests known to God. 
Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding 
will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. 
Finally, brothers and sisters, 
whatever is true, whatever is honorable, 
whatever is just, whatever is pure, 
whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, 
if there is any excellence 
and if there is anything worthy of praise, 
think about these things. 
Keep on doing what you have learned and received 
and heard and seen in me. 
Then the God of peace will be with you.”

NO anxiety?  Does he have a clue how hard life is?  Yes, he does and he even discusses how stressful his worries for the different churches are and how he has laid that anxiety at the Lord’s feet and asks us to do the same!  Worry is a very powerful emotional state and Paul knows this therefore he wants to remove that from our lives.  “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.  Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

This week’s Psalm, Psalm 80, The Vineyard of the Lord continues the theme of the vineyard planted and cared for by the Lord with loving care in hope of harvesting good fruits.

Have a blessed week by placing all your concerns and worries with God!