The Parable of the Two Sons is directly addressed by the Lord Jesus to those who questioned his authority, the chief priests and elders. Rather than answering them directly, the Lord tells a short story about a father who asks his two sons to work in his vineyard. The first son refuses but later regrets it and goes to work. The second son answers him positively and politely but fails to work.

When the Lord asks the leaders which son did the father’s will, they correctly answer “the first,” not knowing that the Lord is pointing on them with regards the attitude of the second son. The chief priests, scribes, and elders projected an image of being faithful to the law. Yet, when confronted with God’s active work through John the Baptist and the Lord Jesus, they refused to humble themselves to recognize it.

Words, titles, and lineage hold no weight in the Kingdom of God if unsupported by obedience and concrete actions. Faith is demonstrated by doing God’s will, echoing the Lord Jesus’ declaration that only those who do the Father’s will shall enter heaven. The outcasts who repent from their sins and turn to God bypass self-righteous religious authorities, demonstrating that entrance into God’s kingdom is grounded in accepting God’s grace and having ongoing transformation rather than empty words without acting on it.

~ FRA. RONEL MA. ADVINCULA, OSM

The Parable of the Two Sons made me realize that I am like both sons. There are times when I agree to do what my parents ask, but then I fail to follow through. I realize this makes me seem untrustworthy, as if my words mean nothing. But the verse, “‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went,” spoke to my heart. This is exactly what I often do. When my parents assign me a task, I may say no at first, especially when I am busy and have so much to do. Yet I feel restless knowing I haven’t obeyed, so I change my mind and do it anyway.

As Father Jumen said in our last lectio divina, “We have the freedom to change our mind, our words, our will, and our life.” What matters most is not the first answer we give, but what we do in the end. We can change anything if we truly want to, especially when we have a goal. Believing is the start, but action is what makes it real. It is far better to say no at first and then obey than to say yes and never do it at all.

Change for the better, not just because others expect it, but because you know it is right. If you want to change, set your mindset and keep trying. It is hard when you only talk but never act. Remember that you change for yourself and for the people who love you. Your own self can be your hardest obstacle, but consistency conquers weakness. Even a small step moves you forward. Do not rush. Growth takes time. In the days and weeks ahead, you will see the person you are becoming. True change starts within, and every effort counts.

~ Shaina Pajarillo

PRAYER TO START THE WEEK
Lord, help us say “yes” to You, not just with our words but through our actions. Forgive us when we choose our own way and forget to follow Your will. Give us the courage to change, grow, and live out our faith every day. May our choices show Your love and inspire others to come closer to You. Amen .

Originally published in the Neo Jeremiah Voice of the Young Prophet Newsletter (September 27, 2026 issue).