look to him and be radiant

Readings for 16 December 2008
Thus says the LORD: Woe to the city, rebellious and polluted,to the tyrannical city! She hears no voice, accepts no correction; In the LORD she has not trusted,to her God she has not drawn near.
First Reading Zep 3:1-2, 9-13

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor. Look to him that you may be radiant with joy, and your faces may not blush with shame. When the poor one called out, the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him.
Responsorial PsalmPs 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19 and 23

A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ The son said in reply, ‘I will not, ’but afterwards he changed his mind and went. The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go. Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Amen…
Gospel Mt 21:28-32
Reflection
Are you talking to me? I have not listened to you most of the time. I was too busy talking to my friends and listening. I never gave ear to your word in the silence of my heart.
Still you offer your radiance to me.
My baptism was my yes to you Lord. Like the first son, but I try to fulfil my self rather than your will. Forgive me, Lord. I will keep your word.