Twenty-sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time

Here are the readings for the Twenty-sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time, September 25, 2011:

Ezekiel 18: 25-28
Psalm 25: 4-5, 8-10, 14
Philippians 2: 1-11
Matthew 21: 28-32

To our American sensibilities, the concept of the sins (or blessings) of the parent being passed on to their descendents seems entirely strange. Why should an innocent person be cursed because their great-grandfather was a jerk? Or, why should a child of a blessed person even try to be good, if the blessings automatically got transferred to them?! The prophet Ezekiel takes on this long-held belief, and advocates for personal responsibility and conversion. (a message not kindly met by those currently 'blessed')

In the Gospel, Jesus responds to the religious leaders who have just questioned his authority with a parable highlighted the difference between giving the right answer and doing the right thing. (a message not kindly met by those currently blessed with power and the right answers)

• How does the good news that sinners have the chance to change affect your understanding of God?
• Do you identify with one of the sons in the parable, in your own inclinations to God's call?

The Catechumenate meets this Sunday and will be talking about 'Moral Decision Making'
This Tuesday is the next Inquiry session.